When you sit down to meditate, how do you decide what you’ll practice? I’m still experimenting with my routine. Some days I feel drawn to concentration, other days more open awareness. Do you choose based on mood, a long-term plan, or something else entirely?
2 Likes
Hi Laurence,
Great question, and I’ll share my thoughts on this topic. To start, it’s helpful to know what your goals are: Letting go of negativity? Relaxing? Exploring your mind? Having fun? Gaining life-altering insights? The answer will determine what you practice.
You might decide to delve into a module on the FitMind app tailored to your goal, or to master a technique you’ve already learned by repeating it. You could also combine a few synergistic practices, stacking them into a “workout” on the app, such as 5 minutes of breathing followed by 10 minutes of good vibes and 10 minutes of open awareness.
I’ve found that the greatest benefits come from practicing a single meditation technique in-depth for consistent, extended periods (e.g., 1 hour+ daily for several weeks). Personally, metta meditation–as taught in the “30 Days of Bliss” course–and releasing–as taught in the “Combat Training” course–have been far and away the most effective.
4 Likes
I’ll add a simple angle that’s worked for me.
I try not to decide too much in the moment. If I pick based on how I feel that day, I tend to chase comfort or novelty. So I usually stick with one primary practice for a few weeks/months at a time and let the day-to-day experience be whatever it is.
I also have a short default option saved as a workout in the FitMind app. On days when things feel scattered or time is tight, I just press play and don’t think about it. Having that decision already made has helped a lot.
For me, the question isn’t so much which technique is best, but whether I’ve removed enough friction to actually sit down and do it. Once I’m there, the practice tends to take care of itself.
1 Like
lately I’ve been loving the new combat training module in the app. it’s really simple, but surprisingly powerful. I like that it doesn’t require a long sit or a perfect setup. It’s more something I can apply in real moments when I can remember to use it!
2 Likes
I never really know what I am going do. I do know that I strive for a similar time each day, I then go by “feel”. Somedays are longer than others with the practice and I never judge myself. My view is 5min is more than 0min and I always feel better. Oh, and I start with deep / holding breaths to lower my heart rate. Hope this helps.
2 Likes
I’m currently on a ‘comeback’ journey. Moving to a new country and navigating a new language was so stressful that I let my meditation practice slip. Then, a family emergency really brought me to my knees, and I realized that meditation was the only way through. Right now, I’m sticking to the Foundations I and II programs, and honestly, I feel so much better.
4 Likes
Hi ya, Laurence. I think compliance is that most important thing. What are you going to stick to? What do you enjoy? Pretty much the same question, imho. Happy meditating 
1 Like