Have you ever felt nothing but restlessness during some meditations? Maybe your mind wouldn’t stop racing, or your body wouldn't be still, or waves of emotion came up that you weren’t expecting. 

Last month, I wrote about how mindfulness isn’t about chasing calm — it’s about awareness. And often that awareness brings us face-to-face with our “stuff.” You can read the article in my blog here. Today, I want to talk about that a little more.

It’s tempting to think you’re doing it wrong or you just need to find a meditation that gives you that great feeling. But agitation, that is part of the practice. In fact, a consistent practice will be a mix as we grow and deepen. 

Often, what rises in meditation is simply what’s been living inside us. It could be stress, worry, grief, tension, memories, emotions we never knew were there working their way through once we finally pause. The mind and body are finally being more fully seen.

Many of us have sat in meditation only to find tears or a mix of emotions rising instead of calm. I surely have. It can be surprising, even uncomfortable — yet it’s often the first sign that we’re truly listening.

This isn’t failure. This is awareness. This is information. And this is release.

Gently turning toward what arises, even briefly, is how mindfulness strengthens us. By meeting restlessness with curiosity instead of judgment, we discover that calm isn’t something we force — it’s something that emerges once what’s within us has been given space to move its way through. And, as we move through the different seasons and challenges of life, that applies no matter how long one has been practicing.

💡Remember, particularly in difficult moments, don't go it alone. Get the support you need whether that be a trusted mindfulness teacher, a spiritual advisor, or a close family member. And keep in mind that mindfulness isn't therapy. Don't deny yourself a licensed health professional for appropriate support if that is what you need.

If you've been feeling stuck in your meditation or mindfulness practice, you're not alone. I'd love to support you in finding a practice that fits your season of life. You can book a free mindfulness connection call here.