This issue is pretty straightforward. It is very common to feel sleepy and (tired) when you sit to practice mindfulness meditation.
When we stop moving and having outward distractions (media, reading, conversation,) our mind/body naturally thinks it’s time to rest.
That is specific to our speeded up Western culture, where we have more of an off/on lifestyle. So your body thinks- when stimulation stops that “it’s time to go to sleep.”
Also related is that we are often sleep deprived- so on top of not being used to quiet, stillness and lack of stimulation, we are actually needing more sleep.
Both of those reasons combined created the perfect storm for snoozing on the cushion….
The obvious solution to the latter issue, is start getting more sleep. The first issue of simply tuning out/getting sleepy is a more nuanced and will lead amazing benefits once corrected.
I work with clients and students to develop the ability to stay focused on whatever is happening. With practice, it becomes easy to stay alert despite- lack of external stimulation, music or media. One practice we use is “noting” to maintain our focus on what the mind is actually doing moment to moment.
If you’d like to have me lead a series of training (online for your business) find out more, contact page.
One on one I mostly focus on working with women here: www.intheflowofmagic.com.
