Welcome to another exciting adventure on the path to inner peace and mindfulness. Today, we’re diving into the enchanting world of meditation with a twist—I’ll be sharing “What to Think About When Meditating: 9 Active Mind Tips.” If you’re anything like me, meditation might have felt like a bit of a mystery at first. I mean, how do you meditate in bed without dozing off, and what on earth are you supposed to think about? My thoughts used to fly around like a swarm of excited bees, making it impossible to find that elusive calm.

But fear not! I’ve embarked on a journey to untangle this very puzzle. After a ton of research, some hilarious trial-and-error moments, and a sprinkle of personal insight, I’ve gathered the juiciest tips to help us all navigate the meditative mind maze. From understanding what to think about when meditating to the curious phenomenon of seeing colours when meditating, and even embracing the beginner’s mind meditation approach, we’ve got a lot to explore.

So, grab your comfiest cushion, maybe even plop down on your bed (yes, I’ll show you how to meditate in bed without drifting into dreamland), and let’s embark on this mindful escapade together. Ready to calm those buzzing thoughts? Let’s dive in!

Alright, folks, let’s get straight to the good stuff! Here are the top 9 tips on what to think about when meditating to help you cultivate that serene, focused mind we all dream of:

1. Focus on your breath.
2. Visualize a peaceful scene.
3. Repeat a mantra.
4. Scan your body for tension.
5. Observe your thoughts without judgment.
6. Reflect on gratitude.
7. Set a positive intention.
8. Contemplate a meaningful quote.
9. Imagine releasing stress with each exhale.

There you have it! Give these a try, and watch your meditation practice transform. Stay tuned as we dive into each of these tips in detail, ensuring you have all the tools you need for a truly transformative meditation practice.

What to Think About When Meditating?

Meditation can often feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re new to it and unsure where to focus your mind. Whether you’re figuring out what to think about when meditating, learning how to meditate in bed, or even experiencing the fascinating phenomenon of seeing colours when meditating, having a clear focus can transform your practice. Embracing the beginner’s mind meditation approach, let’s dive into the first tip on our list and explore it in depth.

1. Focus on Your Breath

Focusing on your breath is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to anchor your mind during meditation. Here’s how you can master this foundational technique:

Practical Tips:

• Find a Comfortable Position: Whether you’re sitting cross-legged on the floor, in a chair, or lying down learning how to meditate in bed, comfort is key. Ensure your spine is straight, and your body is relaxed.
• Begin with Deep Breaths: Start by taking a few deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. Feel the air fill your lungs and then slowly release it.
• Notice Your Natural Breath: Shift your attention to your natural breathing pattern. Don’t try to control it; simply observe the inhale and exhale. Notice the rise and fall of your chest or the sensation of air passing through your nostrils.
• Count Your Breaths: To maintain focus, try counting your breaths. Inhale (one), exhale (two), and so on up to ten, then start again from one. This technique can be especially helpful if your mind tends to wander.
• Bring Your Mind Back Gently: If you notice your thoughts drifting, gently bring your focus back to your breath without judgment. This is a key aspect of the beginner’s mind meditation—approaching each moment with curiosity and without preconceived notions.

By concentrating on your breath, you can create a steady point of focus that calms the mind and brings you into the present moment. This technique not only helps to ground you but also paves the way for deeper meditative experiences, such as seeing colours when meditating, by enhancing your overall mindfulness.

2. Visualize a Peaceful Scene

Visualizing a peaceful scene can be a powerful tool to focus your mind and enhance your meditation practice. This technique allows you to create a mental sanctuary that promotes relaxation and clarity. Here’s how you can effectively incorporate visualization into your meditation routine:

Practical Tips:

• Select a Tranquil Scene: Choose a place that feels serene and calming to you. It could be a beach, a forest, a mountain top, or even a cozy room. The key is to pick a scene that evokes peace and happiness.

By creating and revisiting your peaceful scene, you build a mental escape that can bring profound peace and clarity into your meditation practice.

3. Repeat a Mantra

Repeating a mantra is a classic meditation technique that helps focus the mind and cultivate a deep sense of peace. A mantra is a word or phrase that you silently repeat to yourself, creating a point of concentration that anchors your thoughts. Here’s how you can effectively integrate mantra repetition into your meditation practice:

Practical Tips:

• Choose Your Mantra: Select a mantra that resonates with you. It could be a traditional mantra like “Om,” a positive affirmation like “I am calm,” or any word/phrase that brings you peace. The key is that it feels meaningful and soothing.
• Find a Quiet Space: Sit comfortably in a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. You can also practice how to meditate in bed if that helps you relax more.
• Focus on Your Breath: Begin by taking a few deep breaths to center yourself. Then, start repeating your mantra silently in sync with your breath. For example, you might think “Om” on each exhale.
• Engage Fully with the Mantra: Allow your mind to fully engage with the mantra. Listen to the sound of it in your mind, feel the vibration of the words, and let it become the central focus of your meditation.
• Return Gently: If your mind starts to wander, gently guide it back to the mantra without judgment. This is an essential aspect of the beginner’s mind meditation—approaching your practice with openness and acceptance.
• Experience Deeper States: Over time, you may find that the repetition of the mantra leads to deeper states of relaxation and concentration. Some people even report seeing colours when meditating, which can indicate a heightened state of mindfulness and inner peace.
• Consistency is Key: Consistency is crucial for mantra meditation. Try to practice at the same time each day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. This helps build a routine and deepen your practice over time.

By repeating a mantra, you create a simple yet powerful focus point that helps quiet the mind and enhance your meditation experience. This technique, especially when approached with a beginner’s mind meditation perspective, encourages you to let go of expectations and embrace each session with curiosity and openness. Whether you’re meditating in a quiet room or figuring out how to meditate in bed, repeating a mantra can be a transformative practice that brings clarity and tranquility to your mind.

4. Scan Your Body for Tension

Body scanning is a powerful meditation technique that involves paying close attention to different parts of your body, identifying areas of tension, and consciously relaxing them. This practice not only enhances your physical awareness but also helps in grounding your mind. Here’s how you can effectively incorporate body scanning into your meditation:

Practical Tips:

• Get Comfortable: Find a comfortable position, whether sitting, lying down, or learning how to meditate in bed. Ensure your body is supported, and you are in a relaxed posture.
• Begin with Deep Breaths: Start by taking a few deep breaths to center yourself. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth, allowing your body to relax with each breath.
• Start from the Top: Begin the body scan at the top of your head. Slowly move your attention downwards, part by part. Notice any sensations, tension, or areas of relaxation. For example, focus on your scalp, then your forehead, eyes, cheeks, and so on.
• Focus on Each Part: As you move your attention through your body, take your time with each part. Notice how each area feels, and if you encounter tension, imagine breathing into that area and relaxing it with each exhale.
• Include Your Entire Body: Work your way down through your neck, shoulders, arms, chest, back, abdomen, hips, legs, and feet. Ensure you cover your entire body, noticing every sensation along the way.
• Embrace Sensory Experiences: Sometimes, during a body scan, you might experience seeing colours when meditating. This can be a sign of deep relaxation and heightened awareness. Embrace these experiences as part of your practice.
• Stay Present: Maintain a beginner’s mind meditation approach by staying present and open to each sensation without judgment. If your mind starts to wander, gently bring your focus back to the part of the body you’re currently scanning.

Highlight for Immediate Implementation:

• Identify and Relax Tension Points: Pay special attention to any areas where you feel tension. Breathe deeply into these areas and consciously relax them with each exhale. This can significantly enhance your sense of relaxation and physical well-being.

By scanning your body for tension, you create a mindful connection between your mind and body. This technique helps you become more aware of physical sensations and fosters a deep sense of relaxation. Incorporating this practice, especially with a beginner’s mind meditation approach, allows you to explore each session with curiosity and without preconceived notions. Whether you’re practicing in a quiet room or figuring out how to meditate in bed, body scanning can be a transformative addition to your meditation toolkit.

5. Observe Your Thoughts Without Judgment

Observing your thoughts without judgment is a core meditation technique that encourages mindfulness and emotional clarity. By watching your thoughts come and go without getting attached to them, you can achieve a greater sense of inner peace and understanding. Here’s how to practice this effectively:

Practical Tips:

• Find Your Space: Choose a quiet place where you can sit comfortably or even learn how to meditate in bed. Ensure you are in a relaxed position that supports mindfulness.
• Settle In: Begin by taking a few deep breaths to center yourself. Close your eyes and allow your body to relax.
• Notice Your Thoughts: As you settle into your meditation, start to observe your thoughts as they arise. Don’t try to control them or push them away. Simply notice each thought as it comes into your mind.
• Visualize Your Thoughts: Imagine your thoughts as clouds passing through the sky or leaves floating down a stream. This visualization can help you see your thoughts as transient and not something to get attached to.
• Practice Non-Judgment: One of the key aspects of what to think about when meditating is practicing non-judgment. Allow each thought to come and go without labeling it as good or bad. Just observe it and let it pass.
• Stay Present: Use the beginner’s mind meditation approach by staying present and open. Treat each thought as a new experience without preconceived notions or judgments.
• Return to Your Anchor: If you find yourself getting carried away by a thought, gently bring your focus back to your breath or a chosen anchor point. This could be the sensation of your breath, a mantra, or the feeling of your body sitting or lying down.
• Embrace Sensory Experiences: Sometimes, you might experience seeing colours when meditating as a result of deep focus and relaxation. Embrace these experiences as part of your mindfulness practice.

Highlight for Immediate Implementation:

• Mindful Observation: When a thought arises, label it briefly (e.g., “thinking” or “worrying”) and then let it go. This helps create a habit of non-attachment and mindfulness.

By observing your thoughts without judgment, you develop a greater awareness of your mental patterns and emotional responses. This practice allows you to approach your thoughts with curiosity and detachment, fostering a sense of peace and clarity. Whether you’re in a quiet room or practicing how to meditate in bed, observing your thoughts can be a powerful tool in your meditation practice. Embracing a beginner’s mind meditation approach ensures that you remain open to each moment, enhancing your overall mindfulness journey.

• Incorporate a Gratitude List: Mentally list a few things you are grateful for. This could be three to five items that come to mind. Reflect on each one briefly and appreciate its presence in your life.
• Stay Present: Maintain a beginner’s mind meditation approach by staying present with each moment of gratitude. Embrace the feelings of thankfulness without any preconceived notions or judgments.
• Embrace Sensory Experiences: Sometimes, reflecting on gratitude can lead to seeing colours when meditating, a sign of deep emotional and sensory engagement. Embrace these experiences as part of your meditation.

Highlight for Immediate Implementation:

• Daily Gratitude Practice: At the end of your meditation, commit to reflecting on at least one thing you’re grateful for every day. This practice can significantly enhance your overall well-being and mindfulness.

By reflecting on gratitude, you shift your focus from what might be lacking or stressful in your life to the abundance of positive experiences and relationships you have. This practice not only boosts your mood but also fosters a sense of fulfillment and contentment. Whether you’re meditating in a quiet space or figuring out how to meditate in bed, reflecting on gratitude can be a transformative addition to your mindfulness practice. Embracing a beginner’s mind meditation approach allows you to experience each moment with fresh eyes, enhancing your journey towards a more grateful and joyful life.

7. Set a Positive Intention

Setting a positive intention at the beginning of your meditation session can guide your focus and give your practice a sense of purpose. This technique involves choosing a specific positive aim or affirmation to concentrate on, which can enhance your meditation experience and overall mindset. Here’s how you can effectively set a positive intention during your meditation:

Practical Tips:

• Find Your Space: Select a quiet and comfortable place for your meditation. Whether it’s a dedicated meditation corner, a serene spot in nature, or learning how to meditate in bed, ensure you are in a relaxing environment.
• Begin with Relaxation: Start by taking a few deep breaths to relax your body and calm your mind. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth, allowing tension to melt away.
• Choose Your Intention: Think about what you want to bring into your life or focus on during your meditation. This could be a quality like peace, love, compassion, or an affirmation such as “I am calm” or “I am strong.”
• State Your Intention Clearly: Silently state your intention to yourself. For example, “I intend to cultivate patience today” or “I am open to love and kindness.” Repeat it a few times, letting the meaning sink in.
• Visualize Your Intention: As you focus on your intention, visualize what it looks like and feels like to embody this quality. Imagine scenarios where you exhibit this intention, making it as vivid and real as possible.
• Use Your Breath: Connect your intention with your breath. For instance, as you inhale, visualize drawing in your positive intention, and as you exhale, imagine spreading it throughout your body.
• Embrace a Beginner’s Mind: Approach your intention with a beginner’s mind meditation perspective. Stay open and curious about how your intention will manifest, without any preconceived notions.
• Experience Sensory Engagement: Setting a positive intention can sometimes lead to seeing colours when meditating. This sensory experience can indicate a deep connection with your intention and enhanced mindfulness.

Highlight for Immediate Implementation:

• Daily Intention Setting: Before you begin your meditation each day, set a clear, positive intention to guide your practice. This simple step can enhance your focus and infuse your day with purpose.

By setting a positive intention, you create a guiding principle for your meditation session and your day. This practice helps direct your thoughts and energy towards a desired outcome, promoting a sense of purpose and positivity. Whether you’re in a quiet meditation space or figuring out how to meditate in bed, setting an intention can be a powerful tool for enhancing your mindfulness practice. Embracing a beginner’s mind meditation approach ensures that you remain open and receptive to the ways your intention might unfold, enriching your overall meditation experience.

8. Contemplate a Meaningful Quote

Contemplating a meaningful quote during meditation can provide profound insights and a deeper connection to your inner self. This technique involves selecting a quote that resonates with you and reflecting on its meaning and significance. Here’s how you can effectively incorporate this practice into your meditation:

Practical Tips:

• Choose a Quiet Space: Find a peaceful place where you can meditate without interruptions. This could be a dedicated meditation area, a quiet room, or even learning how to meditate in bed. Ensure you are in a comfortable position.
• Begin with Deep Breaths: Start by taking a few deep breaths to calm your mind and relax your body. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing any tension.
• Select a Meaningful Quote: Choose a quote that inspires you or has significant meaning in your life. It could be a quote about love, peace, resilience, or any other theme that resonates with you.
• Reflect on the Quote: Silently repeat the quote to yourself a few times, letting the words sink in. Reflect on its meaning and how it applies to your life. Consider what the quote is teaching you and how you can embody its message.
• Visualize the Message: As you reflect on the quote, visualize what it looks like to live out its message. Imagine scenarios where you apply its wisdom in your daily life. This visualization can deepen your understanding and connection to the quote.
• Engage Your Senses: Sometimes, contemplating a meaningful quote can lead to sensory experiences such as seeing colours when meditating. Embrace these experiences as part of your reflection.
• Stay Present: Approach this practice with a beginner’s mind meditation attitude. Stay present with the words and their meaning, without preconceived notions or judgments. Allow yourself to explore the quote as if encountering it for the first time.
• Return to Your Anchor: If your mind starts to wander, gently bring your focus back to the quote. Use it as an anchor to keep your thoughts centered and engaged.

Highlight for Immediate Implementation:

• Daily Quote Reflection: Each day, choose a new quote to reflect on during your meditation. This practice can provide daily inspiration and deepen your mindfulness.

By contemplating a meaningful quote, you bring a focused and reflective element to your meditation practice. This technique helps you connect deeply with ideas and values that are important to you, fostering personal growth and insight. Whether you’re meditating in a dedicated space or figuring out how to meditate in bed, reflecting on a meaningful quote can be a powerful way to enhance your mindfulness practice. Embracing a beginner’s mind meditation approach ensures that you remain open and curious about the wisdom each quote offers, enriching your meditation experience.

9. Imagine Releasing Stress with Each Exhale

Imagining releasing stress with each exhale is a simple yet powerful meditation technique that helps you let go of tension and cultivate a sense of calm. By visualizing stress leaving your body with every breath out, you can enhance your relaxation and mindfulness. Here’s how to practice this technique effectively:

Practical Tips:

• Find a Comfortable Position: Choose a quiet, comfortable place where you can sit or lie down. Whether you’re in a meditation corner, a quiet room, or learning how to meditate in bed, make sure you’re at ease.
• Begin with Deep Breaths: Start by taking a few deep breaths to center yourself. Inhale deeply through your nose, filling your lungs completely, and exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your body relax with each breath.
• Focus on Your Breath: Bring your attention to your natural breathing rhythm. Notice the sensation of the air entering and leaving your body without trying to control it.
• Visualize Stress Leaving Your Body: With each exhale, imagine that you are releasing stress and tension. Visualize the stress as a dark cloud or any form that resonates with you, and see it dissipate as you breathe out.
• Use Affirmations: Combine your visualization with affirmations. For example, as you exhale, think to yourself, “I release all tension,” or “I let go of stress.” This reinforces the act of letting go.
• Scan Your Body: Perform a quick body scan to identify areas of tension. As you exhale, focus on these areas and imagine the tension melting away with your breath.
• Embrace Sensory Experiences: Sometimes, this deep focus can lead to seeing colours when meditating. Embrace these visual experiences as signs of your body and mind responding to the relaxation process.
• Practice Non-Judgment: Maintain a beginner’s mind meditation approach by observing each breath and visualization without judgment. Approach the practice with openness and curiosity, without any preconceived expectations.
• Return to Your Breath: If your mind starts to wander, gently bring your focus back to your breath and the visualization of releasing stress. This helps keep your meditation focused and effective.

Highlight for Immediate Implementation:

• Stress-Release Visualization: During your next meditation session, visualize releasing stress with each exhale, imagining the tension leaving your body as a dark cloud dissipating with every breath out.

By imagining releasing stress with each exhale, you create a powerful tool for managing stress and enhancing relaxation. This technique helps you focus on what to think about when meditating by providing a clear, calming visualization. Whether you’re in a peaceful meditation space or figuring out how to meditate in bed, this method can significantly improve your mindfulness practice. Embracing a beginner’s mind meditation approach ensures that you stay present and open to each moment, allowing you to experience the full benefits of stress-release meditation.

Exploring what to think about when meditating has opened up so many avenues for peace, clarity, and mindfulness. From focusing on your breath and visualizing serene scenes to repeating mantras and contemplating meaningful quotes, each technique offers a unique way to declutter your mind and enrich your meditation practice.

Remember, meditation is a personal journey. Whether you’re figuring out how to meditate in bed, experiencing the magic of seeing colours when meditating, or embracing the beginner’s mind meditation approach, there’s no right or wrong way to do it. The key is to find what resonates with you and makes you feel more centered.

Now, I want to hear from you! Which of these tips are you excited to try first? Have you discovered any unique ways to declutter your life through meditation? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s create a vibrant community where we can learn and grow together.

Happy meditating, everyone!