To this practitioner, what mattered the most was committing to "imperfect meditation" [read: just do it wrong, silly] at the same time of day, every day, for the same amount of time, and for a year.
I could commit to five minutes. The harder part was committing to ONLY five minutes. I knew that after a year, I would identify as a meditator. Skipping my meditation would feel like I'd skipped brushing my teeth.
A year later, I doubled my sit to ten minutes. (buckle seat belt)
Then doubled again in about six months, and again the following year.
Recently, I've cut back to 20 minutes a day.
It's been eleven years, I've sat two ten-day silent retreats, and I'm still not very good at it.
I've also learned that being good at meditation was never the point.
"I'm still not very good at it. I've also learned that being good at meditation was never the point." I love this so much! I think we have to try (and fail) at being "good" at meditation before we're gifted with that realization. 🙏
This is such a great guide! I love how easy and approachable you've made it. Mindfulness really doesn’t have to be complicated, and these simple steps are perfect for anyone wanting to get started. I especially love the reminder to keep it short and sweet in the beginning – it’s all about setting that foundation and building from there! hugs
Robust, Derek.
To this practitioner, what mattered the most was committing to "imperfect meditation" [read: just do it wrong, silly] at the same time of day, every day, for the same amount of time, and for a year.
I could commit to five minutes. The harder part was committing to ONLY five minutes. I knew that after a year, I would identify as a meditator. Skipping my meditation would feel like I'd skipped brushing my teeth.
A year later, I doubled my sit to ten minutes. (buckle seat belt)
Then doubled again in about six months, and again the following year.
Recently, I've cut back to 20 minutes a day.
It's been eleven years, I've sat two ten-day silent retreats, and I'm still not very good at it.
I've also learned that being good at meditation was never the point.
Thank you, Damon!
"I'm still not very good at it. I've also learned that being good at meditation was never the point." I love this so much! I think we have to try (and fail) at being "good" at meditation before we're gifted with that realization. 🙏
This is such a great guide! I love how easy and approachable you've made it. Mindfulness really doesn’t have to be complicated, and these simple steps are perfect for anyone wanting to get started. I especially love the reminder to keep it short and sweet in the beginning – it’s all about setting that foundation and building from there! hugs
I appreciate that so much, Alina! Hoping to make it as easy as possible for everyone who seeks.
👍❤️🧘♀️