Meditation Myths
This does NOT have to happen for you to be meditating.
What is having a blank mind? Meditation isn’t about stopping thoughts; it’s about noticing them and gently returning your attention. Wandering is part of the practice.
This is used as an anchor during meditation.
What is our breath? Focusing on breathing keeps you present and grounded.
Meditation can be done in this position, in addition to sitting.
What is standing or walking? Flexibility in position can improve comfort and focus, making meditation more accessible.
This feeling during meditation is normal and common.
What is boredom? Meditation slows down mental activity, which can feel boring, but noticing boredom trains attention.
This meditation focuses on physical sensations throughout the body.
What is a body scan? Body scans systematically bring awareness to sensations without trying to change them.
Meditation does not require this type of environment.
What is a quiet place? Meditation can happen anywhere, even in noisy, public, or busy environments. It’s the focus, not the silence, that matters.
If thoughts begin to take over, return your focus to this.
What is your breathing? Attention to breath calms the mind and helps reduce mental chatter.
If trying to fall asleep, this position may be helpful.
What is lying down? Matching your posture to your goal, like sleep, supports effectiveness.
It is okay to do this if sitting still becomes difficult.
What is a move? Small adjustments are allowed. Movement does not break meditation if awareness remains.
Body scanning can help manage this.
What is pain or physical stress? Awareness reduces tension and can improve pain tolerance.
There is no ___ or ___ way to meditate.
What is right or wrong? Meditation styles are flexible. The best approach is the one that helps you build awareness and attention.
When breathing deeply, your stomach should ___ the inhale.
What is expand? Deep breathing engages the diaphragm and signals relaxation to your nervous system.
If you feel sleepy but want to stay awake, you might do this.
What is "stand up" or "sit up straighter"? Posture can affect alertness, helping maintain focus.
If you are meditating to relax before bed, it is okay to do this.
What is falling asleep? Meditation can naturally lead to sleep if your goal is relaxation.
During a body scan, you observe sensations without this.
What is judgment? Neutral observation allows sensations to be noticed without stress or criticism.
When your mind wanders, you should do this.
What is gently bringing your focus back? Self-compassion is key. Acknowledge distractions without judgment and return to your anchor, like your breath.
Breathing helps quiet the mind because it follows this natural pattern.
What is your natural rhythm? Breathing provides a steady, predictable rhythm, which helps focus and reduces stress.
Meditation can even be practiced in this busy place.
What is on a train? You don’t need a quiet room; awareness can be practiced anywhere.
If boredom continues, it might mean this.
What is your body doing meditating for now? Fatigue or mental saturation is normal; shorter or later sessions may be more effective.
Sensations are described as doing this over time.
What is rising and falling or changing moment to moment? Observing change teaches impermanence and reduces attachment to discomfort.
Thoughts during meditation can sometimes be this.
What are the messages from your body to pay attention to something. Persistent thoughts might highlight stress or issues that need attention. You can briefly process them, then return to meditation.
If movement is interfering, you should do this before meditating.
What is moving around to get energy out? Stretching or walking before meditation can reduce restlessness and improve focus.
When noticing discomfort, you should avoid doing this.
What is judging it? Observing discomfort without judgment reduces stress and increases body awareness.
At the end of the body scan, you are encouraged to set this.
What is the intention for the day? Setting an intention helps bring mindfulness into daily life beyond the meditation session.