Tuomo HMay 11

A question about meditation with an ADHD mind. I've meditated, on and off, for several years now. For years I tried to sit staring at the wall, following Zen Buddhist tradition. While I don't have a problem with the actual sitting, the restless monkey of a mind has been a struggle. I've finally understood it's easier for me to concentrate on the moment when there's a constant change in visual input. The best so far is looking at ground while walking.

The part I'm struggling the most with is noticing the current thought and letting it go. For me, it's a sudden shift in perception: I don't usually notice the current thought but instead remember now, which then pushes the previous thought away like a flick of a switch. I might even forget the previous though. Any thoughts or tips regarding this?

#ADHD #AuDHD #meditation #mindfulness #zen #ZenMeditation

Show threadMichelleMay 11
@LehtoriTuomo Are you committed to one style of meditation or are you open to experimenting with other techniques?
Show threadTuomo HMay 11
@ThunderHoneySnow I'm open as I've recognized that what I consider ideal from traditional point of view may not be ideal for me.
Show threadMichelleMay 11
@LehtoriTuomo Try experimenting with a few different styles. You might find an 'anchor' helpful (Counting Zazen in which you count the breaths, or Sa Ta Na Ma which includes chanting, visualization, and changing mudras) or something simple like Thich Nhat Hanh's "Breathing in, I calm my body. Breathing out, I smile." I have a few different free offerings here: https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video-category/ that you could try. Meditation is very personal, important to find a style that meets you where you are today.
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Show threadTuomo HMay 11
@ThunderHoneySnow Thanks, I'll check them out! Counting breath isn't that helpful for me and I have hypophantasia so visualization isn't a good option. I've tried some chanting, that might work.
Show threadMichelle
@LehtoriTuomo Enjoy exploring! Would love to hear if you find a practice that resonates.
May 11 at 2:33pmWeb
Show threadTuomo HMay 12
@ThunderHoneySnow Thanks! I'll try to remember!