Mindfulness Meditation Lesson 3:
Challenges when Meditating

Theme of Mindfulness Meditation Lesson 3

When we first start to meditate, it can be difficult to keep our attention focused where we want it. In this lesson we learn ways to respond to mind wandering, and strong emotions and physical sensations that arise when we meditate, all of which have a tendency to distract us from our breath and pull our minds away from where we want them to be.

Agenda for Lesson 3

1. Mindfulness of Breath Meditation
 
2. Mind Wandering While Meditating
 
3. Emotions, Pain and Discomfort While Meditating
 
4. Home Practice Review
 
5. Meditating in Silence
 
6. Home Practice

Worksheets

You can download or print off the Mindfulness of Breath Meditation Worksheet we'll be using this session in advance in PDF or Word format. Links for the worksheet are also included at the relevant part of each lesson, so you'll be able to download or open them then if you prefer.

Other Materials

• A notebook for any notes you may wish to make
 
• For the Mindfulness of Breath meditation, you'll need a place to sit:
  • cross-legged on the floor, perhaps on a cushion; or
  • on a firm chair with no armrests (such as a kitchen or dining room chair) where you can sit with your feet flat on the floor and your back not resting on the back of the chair