A note from Sean
I don’t tell people why they should practice. Everyone’s reason is different. Some want to be better parents. Some feel they should, and it’s a chore. I’d rather you find out what practice gives you.
Try this today. Write your why in one sentence and put it where you’ll see it when you would normally skip practice. Before your next sit, read it once. Then name one thing practice has already given you, and take three slow breaths with that in mind.
Keep going: Remembering Motivation and Wise Effort.
This suits anyone whose practice has gone flat or turned into a should. If your reason is tied up with grief or a hard season, go gently. Stop when you need to.
Here’s a Sample of the “Cultivating Joyful Effort” Guided Meditation Script:
Sit comfortably in a quiet place where you can be free from distractionsLet your spine be neutral and tall, rest your hands in your lap or on your thighs in a way thatpromotes a release of your shoulders, and an expansion of your chestClose your eyes, or keep your gaze soft and low, turn your attention inwardBreathe slowly and steadily in and out through your noseFind a quiet, patient and easy, comfortable breathWatch the breath moving in and out through your nose(pause 3 breaths)And then invite joy into your practice by silently contemplating your whyJoyful effort arises when we understand our purposeWhy meditate? Why practice mindfulness? What benefits do you hope to receive?
By understanding intention, And why you are prioritizing your practiceThe effort in practicing becomes imbued with joy, and easeRecall why you are here, Right now, meditating today. Allow a deep satisfaction to ariseAs you apply effort in this moment, joyfully(pause 3 breaths)And then with your why in mind, Cultivate joyful effortBy shifting your awareness to the benefits you’ve already receivedThrough this practice of mindfulness and meditation
