[crent]

I get where you’re coming from but they are listing these things out because those are some of the things you will likely automatically do to distract yourself from the present moment. I once tried to instruct someone on how to meditate and afterward they told me they spent the entire time working out solutions to problems in their head. I tried explaining that actively doing something, like solving problems in your head, means you are not meditating - you are thinking. They couldn’t bring themselves to sit there without getting their mind involved in something.

[jagadaga]

So, instead of solving problems, you want them to solve the problem of not thinking about solving problems?

[crent]

I sense the snark but no. Just fully experience your current moment as it changes without inserting yourself.

[jagadaga]

IMO, a more logical approach is to let your thoughts flow and simply observe them instead of trying to control them (that never worked for me.)

[crent]

Yeah that’s exactly what I mean by not inserting yourself. When you engage with the thoughts, feelings, and sensations, your awareness narrows and you focus on them. As your focus deepens, it becomes amplified and will continue. When you notice this happening, go back to a more neutral observer mindset and let it flow past.

It’s a bit tricky because sometimes you get caught focusing on being the observer and letting sensations pass. It’s a more subtle thought but as you practice those subtle sensations become more apparent. It’s a useful sensation in the beginning to let the more “coarse” sensations and feelings go but eventually you need to let that go too.

[jagadaga]

I don't think it's possible to be conscious and have no thoughts at the same time. Otherwise, you wouldn't even remember the experience. I think we first need to define what we mean by "thoughts".

[crent]

It’s not about having no thoughts. It’s about not being involved in the thought occurring. We often identify with our thoughts and feelings in a way that we do not when we see a cloud pass by. Treat those thoughts, feelings and physical sensations in the same way during meditation.