What is suggested to do when the mind wanders during meditation?

When the mind wanders during meditation, the most effective approach is often to re-anchor to the breath. This method serves as a gentle reminder to bring attention back to the present moment. The breath is a foundational element in many meditation practices and acts as an anchor that helps practitioners return to their meditative state, promoting mindfulness and deeper concentration.

Re-anchoring to the breath allows individuals to acknowledge that their thoughts have drifted without judgment and encourages a practice of kindness towards oneself. This is essential in developing a non-reactive awareness, which is a core component of meditation. The act of returning to the breath can also help in enhancing relaxation and reducing feelings of frustration that may arise from distractions.

In contrast, ignoring wandering thoughts may lead to an increased sense of distraction or frustration, as it does not address the thoughts but instead suppresses them. Changing the meditation focus could disrupt the flow of the practice rather than fostering a deepened sense of awareness and compassion for the wandering mind. Concluding the session early may prevent the individual from fully experiencing the intended benefits of meditation, as it does not provide the opportunity to practice bringing awareness back, which is a critical skill developed through consistent practice.