There are many misconceptions about meditation that Tibetan Buddhist master Mingyur Rinpoche wants to set straight. The biggest one? You don’t have to quiet your mind for an extended period of time in order to reap the benefits.
You have the ability to engage in the practice anytime, anywhere. The key is focusing on what’s happening inside your head. Instead of trying to block your thoughts and emotions as you’re meditating, Rinpoche said that you should lean into what he calls your “monkey mind,” or the constant chattering in your head.
The best way to do this is through the simple habit of being aware of your breath as you breathe in and out, he explained. Even though thoughts might creep into your mind, you are still able to meditate.
“As long as you don’t forget your breath, anything is okay,” Rinpoche said. “[You don’t] need too much concentration. Just simply be aware of your breath.”
Take a look at the video above for more on the power of meditation.
This video was produced by Will Tooke.