Meditation Doesn’t Work for Me!
In recent years, meditation has gained widespread popularity for its mental and physical health benefits. Yet, despite its many endorsements and centuries-long acclaim, I have a client tell me at least once a week, “Meditation doesn’t work for me.” If you’ve ever felt this way, I get it! Meditation can be hard or boring. But before you write off meditation entirely, consider why it might not be working and how you can make it a more effective practice for yourself.
Misconceptions About Meditation
Many people come to meditation with preconceived notions that it’s supposed to be a magical, instant fix for all their problems. However, meditation is not about achieving immediate results but rather about cultivating a skill over time. If you expect instant calm or enlightenment, you are not setting yourself up for success. The real benefits of meditation often come gradually with consistent practice.
Lack of Understanding of Technique
Meditation is not a one-size-fits-all practice. There are numerous techniques—mindfulness, transcendental meditation, guided imagery, and more. If one method doesn’t resonate with you, another might. It’s worth exploring different styles to find one that suits you. Sometimes, the method you start with may not be the best fit for your needs or preferences.
Unrealistic Expectations
Expecting a “perfect” meditation experience can set you up for disappointment. The goal of meditation is not to empty your mind completely but to become more aware of your thoughts and feelings. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve heard somebody say, “I try but I just can’t shut my mind off.” That’s okay! It is not about quieting your mind right off the bat. Even experienced practitioners struggle with a wandering mind. What matters is the practice itself and how you engage with it, rather than achieving an ideal state.
Emotional Discomfort
Meditation can be extremely uncomfortable! That is part of the process. You could notice a range of difficult emotions come up - maybe you feel bored or frustrated by the process. Or maybe you notice your inner critic pop up when you can’t meditate “perfectly.” Maybe anxious thoughts that you were previously avoiding find their way into your consciousness? Regardless of what it is, it’s important to compassionately acknowledge what you notice and then gently redirect your attention. I believe that meditation is actually most effective when the emotional challenges arise.
If you are interested in learning more about meditation and other coping skills for mental health, please reach out to me at eada@morningbirdtherapy.com!