breath problem

[derekb]

Ive been trying to meditate for some time now. Ive only been successful at it a few times and felt great afterward. When I'm not successful I feel much worse. My main problem is when I focus on my natural breathing I immediately start controlling it so that it is no longer natural and I cannot just rest in the awareness of it. I can't seem to help it, has anyone else had this problem. Any answers and tips are appreciate Thank You so much

[GilesC]

Hi Derek,

Have you tried the "Discover Meditation" download from this site? It doesn't involve focusing on the breath, but involves using a mantra instead.

In answer to your question, yes it is common when doing a meditation based on focus on the breath, for us to try and control the breathing and then this disrupts the natural breathing and hence the meditation. Such breathing focused meditations can be tricky and take a lot of practice, but can also be a successful way to enter a meditative state. I've personally tried all sorts of meditation and I prefer the mantra based methods.

Hugs

Giles