Mindfulness Breathing Meditation

Attending to the breath by counting is a centuries old method of keeping the mind focused on the present moment. Actively using numbers also helps us to abide above the distractions of emotions like boredom, frustration, irritation, and disappointment.

This guided breathing meditation introduces some of the fundamentals of mindfulness meditation. We begin to tame the mind by observing thoughts and trying not to let ourselves attach to them. We count each breath from one up to ten, trying not to name or label any of our thoughts, feelings or perceptions. If successful, we get to ten and start again. If we are unsuccessful, we start back at one from wherever we are in the count.

It is important not to feel that getting to “ten” is the goal. Success is only measured in our ability to remain in a state of mindful awareness. We do not label our meditations as “good” or “bad”. This also is an essential mindfulness practice. As such, our efforts are the reward.

The benefits of persistent, daily meditation are many and far reaching. For example, we may notice that our patience increases as well as our ability to be more kind toward ourselves and others. We may also notice that our ability to “self-correct” has increased and we can move away from negative habits and choices more easily.

After a while we can start training the mind to remain open, still and spacious. Gaining in our ability to do this, we can start to experience the deeper benefits of meditation. Mindfulness is the key; it is the beginning and yet has no real limits on how far our meditation practice can take us.

Length: 15 Minutes
Facilitator: Greg Tzinberg
Categories: Beginners, Buddhist, Mindfulness

Like this meditation? Attend a live meditation class or listen to another guided meditation by Greg Tzinberg.