Energizing The Mind

During meditation, your mind can become dull and listless. This short practice will teach you some techniques for how to energize the mind and thoughts.
Credit to Matthew Sockolov: Practicing Mindfulness.

Transcript

Energizing the Mind During meditation practice,

The mind can grow dull or sleepy.

In this short practice,

You will examine a few ways to bring energy and alertness to your mind.

You can incorporate these methods into other practices,

Inviting clarity into your meditation.

Practices like this one can be woven into your daily practice to help induce a more wakeful state of mind.

If you notice sleepiness arising,

Do not deny that it is present.

Recognize that your mind is tired and try to refrain from judgment.

Also know that the more opportunities you give the mind to rest in stillness,

The less sleepy you'll become over time.

Allow the eyes to close and find a comfortable meditation posture.

Begin by tuning in to the experience of the body breathing.

Rest with each inhale and exhale as you feel the movement in the body.

To energize the mind,

You will start with the breath.

With the inhalation,

Breathe in a sense of energy and awareness.

Reach the body upward,

Straighten the spine,

And open the chest.

With the inhale,

With the exhale,

Let go of sleepiness and distraction.

Allow the eyes to open.

Letting light in can help us stay awake and clear.

Continue practicing with the breath and notice any sights that grab your attention.

Now,

Stand up.

With your eyes open,

Standing on your feet,

You are inviting increased alertness into your practice.

It's much harder to fall asleep standing up than sitting down.

As you complete this exercise,

Take a moment to shake out your body and get some energy moving.

Feel the warmth in your muscles as you move and go back to your day.