How to Overcome Drowsiness and Distraction in Meditation

Meditation can be a great way to relax and improve your focus, but it can also be challenging. Two of the most common obstacles to meditation are drowsiness and distraction. This article discusses the causes of drowsiness and distraction, and offers tips on how to overcome them.

Questions

• What are the two most common obstacles to meditation?
• What are the five origins of distraction?
• How can I prevent drowsiness during meditation?
• How can I deal with distractions during meditation?

Answers

• The two most common obstacles to meditation are drowsiness and distraction.
• The five origins of distraction are:
  • The five senses themselves not abiding in their own nature.
  • Thoughts arising in the mind.
  • Bodily sensations.
  • Emotions.
  • The environment.
• To prevent drowsiness during meditation, you can try sitting up straight, opening your eyes wide, and focusing on your breath.
• To deal with distractions during meditation, you can try acknowledging the distraction, then gently bringing your attention back to your breath.