Most people make starting a meditation practice too big of a deal--like the a big decision to start a new diet (which often leads to failure AND more guilt). I've found far greater success when people begin with the smallest of baby steps--five minutes and five moments. First, find five minutes sometime during the day to do nothing but be aware of the tiny sensations of breathing. It can be in your car before you put the key in the ignition, or sitting at your desk, or hiding out in the restroom ( that is a great place to meditate while at work :-).
Second, find five moment throughout the day when you decide to be fully aware of all the sensations, emotions and thoughts happening in one moment--like when your feet first touch the floor in the morning, or when you take that first sip of coffee or tea. It's helpful to decide the night before what five moments you commit to being present, and write them down as a reminder. Then, go easy on yourself when you forget. I've often had to get back into bed and begin again because I wasn't "present" for the first arising.
These two baby steps can lead to big changes. The Grand Canyon didn't happen in one day--it was simply water wearing away rock little by little. Enjoy!
Second, find five moment throughout the day when you decide to be fully aware of all the sensations, emotions and thoughts happening in one moment--like when your feet first touch the floor in the morning, or when you take that first sip of coffee or tea. It's helpful to decide the night before what five moments you commit to being present, and write them down as a reminder. Then, go easy on yourself when you forget. I've often had to get back into bed and begin again because I wasn't "present" for the first arising.
These two baby steps can lead to big changes. The Grand Canyon didn't happen in one day--it was simply water wearing away rock little by little. Enjoy!
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