Mindfulness Theories & Practices #1: Bringing Back a Wandering Mind

“Get out of your head,” the Mindfulness Meditation Instructor said. So as my mind wandered, I brought my attention back to my breath. As thoughts filled my head, I brought my attention back to my breath. As agitation filled my body/mind, I brought my attention back to my breath. As the time between my breaths lengthened and my mind began to fill the space, I activated my breathing.… I breathe in …. I breathe out…. And I brought my attention back to my breath…It took me a very long time to realize that this was “the meditation” — continuously and consistently bringing my wandering mind/body back to my breathing; regardless of the stories spinning in my head; irrespective of the resistance building in my body; no matter the urge just to “pop up” off of the cushion…. It took me a very long time to realize that it takes a lot of effort to abide in a state of effortless being.