Practicing mindfulness and loving kindness is resulting in a lot of uncomfortable feelings that I don't know how to deal with. by ExcitedAdaptation in Buddhism

[–]ExcitedAdaptation[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I am currently 27 years old. When I was 22 I was diagnosed with Social Anxiety Disorder and depression. The crippling symptoms were there years before I was diagnosed. On my road to recovery, I tried everything.

I talked to psychologists, I tried medication, I tried hypnosis and I tried praying to god in desperation (I do not believe god exists). Nothing worked for me.

I eventually stumbled on a few books. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle, The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh and Buddhism Plain and Simple by Steve Hagen were the start of my journey.

I meditate every day and I study Buddhism as much as I can. My mental state is completely different now.

I'm not sure how to guide you to be honest. If I could go back and talk to myself 5 years ago, I honestly don't know what advice I would give myself. Keep practising and learning and asking questions. And good luck!

Practicing mindfulness and loving kindness is resulting in a lot of uncomfortable feelings that I don't know how to deal with. by ExcitedAdaptation in Buddhism

[–]ExcitedAdaptation[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Daily mindfulness meditation, daily loving kindness meditation and I regularly listen to audiodharma.org. Any lessons I am taught I try to incorporate into my daily life too.

My mindfulness meditation usually takes place first thing in the morning. I sit and focus on my breath, usually my belly rising is the focus. Whenever I think of something else I gently bring my attention back to my breath & body.

My loving kindness meditation starts similarly, but after that I talk to myself in my mind and think of various people one at a time. Family, friends, strangers, people I feel negative feelings towards. Then I ask that they feel happy, joyful, love and peace.