Sharing mindfulness experiences!?

[indigogirl66]

I am into week three of an eight week at-home course using the book "Mindfulness: Finding peace in a frantic world" by Mark Williams & somebody else (sorry - I don't have it to hand!)

I just wondered if anybody else was doing a similar thing and wanted to share experiences positive or ahem 'challenging'? Or what has prompted you to begin this or any other type of mindfulness practice really?

I will kick things off by saying that I find it hard making the time for the practice, and sometimes the meditations are really difficult because my mind won't quiet and it's annoying! BUT I have definitely noticed a change in my own mood and my ability to cope with the stresses of looking after a toddler!

Your turn…!

[NK346f2849X127d8bca260]

My h had classes in it when he was in a psychiatric unit before Christmas.
He found it helpful but he didn't have any toddlers to look after!!

[indigogirl66]

Buddhist- yes, I have done a bit before but this is my first proper attempt at any kind if discipline. I'm feeling very evangelical about it at the moment, despite the difficulties I sometimes encounter. Can you become addicted to meditation...?!

NK- does your hb still practice it? Have you had a go?!

[BigPawsBrown]

I find it so hard. I don't think I have had more than about two seconds of actual meditation - my thoughts are off usually and it takes about 5 minutes before I realise

[indigogirl66]

BigPaws are you doing a course or anything? I've found that same thing in the past (and still now) but the accompanying chapters in the book helped me to understand that mind wanderings are not wrong or a failing & also to develop some compassion for yourself when it happens.
It IS well annoying though, I know. I guess this us why we call it practice, and why we persevere with practice...?
I'm really struggling with week 3 - I just don't like the practices this week & have missed a few in favour of a bit of yoga Not sure if I should repeat the week...?

[Matildathecat]

Hi, I've done this as part of a pain management course. I've got the book you mention, too, though haven't actually read it. I find listening to a guided session much easier than doing it in silence. It's ok for pain at the point of doing it but still hurts as soon as I move again.

I'm now also doing Alexander Technique and really enjoying it. It also involves lying down quietly for ten minutes or so. I'm going to link to a guided rest which I think is very good. Ideal for any pain condition and stress.

constructive rest

Anyone else done this?

[indigogirl66]

Matildathecat - yes, I prefer some guidance too. Will check out that link, thanks! Have you tried the guided meditations from //www.meditationoasis.com ? I started with those a few years ago... Some really lovely imagery if you like that sort of thing! I'd encourage you to read some of the book too - it makes the difficulties make sense... If that makes snse? Oops! Rubbish at phone typing

[indigogirl66]

I'm now halfway through week four and finding it increasingly difficult. My mind is so busy it takes me ages to even notice that it wandered and being it back to the focus of the meditation. Before I know it the meditation is coming to a close and I'm still struggling to find my groove with it. I've also been feeling a bit down this week. Not sure if the two experiences are connected...?