Backsliding

[Sukhpaal]

Hey guys, was just looking for tips on what to do when you backslide. I've been doing self-inquiry for the past two months and I had a couple of breakthrough experiences, my self-inquiry sessions were going well and then suddenly I was hit by confusion/frustration. I can no longer focus during self-inquiry either. 

Heres what I've done since:

Mindful Meditation (to increase focus/mindfulness)

Shortened my self-inquiry time during sessions. 

Cut back a bit on non-dual material. 

Any tips?

 

Thanks!

[Salvijus]

Include frustration into your self inquiry practice. Make it the object of your observation/inquiry. 

[Sukhpaal]

@Salvijus will do, thank you.

[UnbornTao]

Allow them to be there -- the confusion and frustration -- while continuing to pursue the subject of your contemplation. It is useful to remind yourself why you are inquiring, so you can remain mindful of anything that isn’t a direct apprehension. It’s fine if you get distracted. Strictly following a ritualized practice isn't needed either, as you can question while going about your day. Wonder: “Who is the one experiencing frustration?” -- or anything else, for that matter. And keep your attention on the experience of yourself.

Sometimes, you can shift to another activity -- exercising, pursuing a hobby, taking a walk, meditating, playing, etc. -- to help your mind refocus and calm down.

Edited 1 hour ago by UnbornTao

[Sugarcoat]

Our minds in this modern world with instant gratification and easily accessible pleasure and dopamine are not used to doing long focused tasks. Or meditating and “doing nothing”. So it’s natural for let’s say frustration to arise. Try to view it like a wave, it will come but it will eventually pass, you just have to get through it, surf that wave, tolerate it, let it be. Your brain is struggling to stay focused and present because it’s not used to it yet. But with consistent practice it probably will get used to it and the frustration will subside. 
 

 

Edited 15 minutes ago by Sugarcoat

[Terell Kirby]

Always good to re-center, whatever that looks like for you. For me it’s more like a check in, how am I feeling and what’s going on with my mental state.