[x123]

Sometimes like this morning I have a terrible time concentrating. I spend hours doing nothing except trying to remember what I was thinking or doing.

I noticed that I can enter a mindful state or trance-like state almost instantly where normally it takes me a lot of concentration and time. (I don't know much about meditation, so I'm not sure of the technical term for the state.) Anyway, it feels better to just give-up trying to do anything and try to meditate instead.

So maybe depression is our brain's way of telling us that it is tired of the constant barrage of abstract stimulation (reading, talking, problem-solving) and it wants some rest? This might explain why depression seems to be increasing in our modern society with cell phones, internet, TV, etc. Our brains aren't getting enough time to rest?

[Creative1onder]

Just like taking medication for depression,meditation isn't a form of managing your condition that suits or works for everyone. Meditation can help people be more present in their bodies in the moment and to detach from the automatic intense chit chatter that goes on in our minds, but it won't help in making changes in your life if that's important. Its for people who are happy to stay where they are, to just accept things the way they are, accept themselves and others as they are. But you don't have to stick with what you've got or feel trapped in similar circumstances. Trying to force yourself to meditate or relax when there's a lot going on in your mind is difficult.

[Altered Moment]

Originally Posted by Creative1onder

but it won't help in making changes in your life if that's important. Its for people who are happy to stay where they are, to just accept things the way they are, accept themselves and others as they are.

HUH?????

I don't think that is true. Usually people take up meditation to make changes. That is what they are seeking to do when taking up meditation, mindfulness, or yoga. And it helps in changing.

[Altered Moment]

Originally Posted by x123

Sometimes like this morning I have a terrible time concentrating. I spend hours doing nothing except trying to remember what I was thinking or doing.

I noticed that I can enter a mindful state or trance-like state almost instantly where normally it takes me a lot of concentration and time. (I don't know much about meditation, so I'm not sure of the technical term for the state.) Anyway, it feels better to just give-up trying to do anything and try to meditate instead.

So maybe depression is our brain's way of telling us that it is tired of the constant barrage of abstract stimulation (reading, talking, problem-solving) and it wants some rest? This might explain why depression seems to be increasing in our modern society with cell phones, internet, TV, etc. Our brains aren't getting enough time to rest?

It might be very benificial to take advantage of that state and meditate. At the least it is very relaxing and stress reducing. If you think your conscience mind is busy you should see your sub conscience. Maybe you will get a glimpse in deep meditation. I have quite often.

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[HeavyFeather]

Being a depressed individual as well as a Buddhist. This thread struck me for its level of insightfulness. In my humble opinion, I too feel the hectickness of modern times is driving humanity to be and stay depressed. Pushing ourselves to "let go" and vacate to the peaceful or for some troubled land of the subconscious we are able to find answers and sometimes break out of depression. For we are able to return to reality and have a stronger and healthier grasp on it. This is more difficult than a one time thing, but I truly believe the answers are within us. For me meditating/chanting in the morning/night help me establish a rhythm in my life, creating a harmony with everything around me. Not trying to preach attt all.

[Altered Moment]

I find the more I practice it the more I am able to be mindful and in the moment in daily living. Just one benefit of many.

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[TheOriginalMe]

I like breathing and relaxation exercises, I usually do these when I want to be left alone or when I'm on the train commuting which is pretty much all the worst elements of modern life packed into a sardine can. I can get so relaxed that I'll miss my station. I don't see them as a way of making changes, more as a way of coping.

I don't know why I've never pursued meditation further, maybe it is the "stiff upper lip" Brit in me that holds me back.

[Abe Froman]

My T suggested I try a meditation app on my smart phone. Gave me the name of one. I haven't tried it yet. Probably going to in a minute, or at least download it to try sometime.

[x123]

Thanks, Creative1onder, zinco, HeavyFeather, TheOriginalMe, Abe Froman.

Yesterday I tried to meditate, but I feel funny this morning again. I will keep at it.

[Altered Moment]

It's easy to learn but hard to practice. You have to keep at it.

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