[–] mindful 0 points 1 point 1 point (+1|-0) ago (edited ago)
Sticking to a schedule can be hard, but over time leads to becoming a habit just by doing it regularly.
You don't have to meditate with a timer, i'm not even sure if it is that useful.
Do you decide what x is before you sit down or do you decide what x is during your session? Can you give an example what x would be?
Edit: If you're having a hard time and don't connect that much positive with meditation, why not pause for a little while and read up about it or practice a different kind of meditation (e.g walking meditation).
[–] swagath [S] 0 points 1 point 1 point (+1|-0) ago
Thank you for your kind words. I've been doing the things you've suggested, and they helped. I usually decide the x before I sit down. x would an event like my mother calling me, or my dog barking. An instantaneous event, not something like my feet starting to hurt.
I read more of Henepola Maharatena Mahathera's Mindfulness in Plain English and it helped. I've taken to reading bits of it now and then, like a Bible. And I realize that only now have I even begun the section on the practical aspects of sitting. So I thank you for your encouragement. My distressed post had to be made, and I'm glad that you responded and helped me. My resolve is now renewed.
[–] Pinyaka 0 points 1 point 1 point (+1|-0) ago
Hey @swagath. I'm also trying to meditate for some amount of time each day just to try to build the habit, but I'm not having much success. I don't know that i can keep you motivated, but if you wanted to form a group to post a comment with today's progress or something daily, I'd participate.
[–] swagath [S] ago
That would be lovely, Pinyaka. Would you like to start a 30-day sit with me? We'll make a post about each day's experiences.
[–] Pinyaka ago
Works for me. You want to post here, create a new sub, or what?