[ic threadins]

[reach_within]

[POST TAKE THE THIRD this is for everyone NOT RONAN (because I would like the comment count on this one to stay reasonable for a while thx) to come thread as needed o/ feel free to get a hold of me to do something or JUST COMMENT I'm cool with whatever.]

Comments

[its_the_cape]

*So the table in the workroom has been pushed aside and two thick mats have been put down for sitting on.*

[reach_within]

You really think this is gonna help?

[its_the_cape]

We'll see. There're a lot of different ways to meditate and some will work while others don't.

*Sitting down.*

[reach_within]

[copying. awkwardly.]

So how do you know which ones are the right ones?

[its_the_cape]

It's not going to be instant, but you can usually tell if it worked when you feel like you're more relaxed. The point is to help you achieve clarity of thought and some inner balance.

[reach_within]

What does 'inner balance' even mean?

[its_the_cape]

It's sort of the ability to distance outside influences from your thoughts and emotions.

[reach_within]

... I'm not really sure I can do that.

[its_the_cape]

We'll just say 'distance' has a flexible meaning here. Give it a shot first and then we'll see.

*Adjusting so that he's in the lotus position.* Just find a comfortable upright postion.

[reach_within]

[tries vaguely to do the same thing, before giving up and crossing his legs instead.]

[its_the_cape]

Alright. The first thing you're usually told is to find something rhythmic to focus on; a mantra or your breathing or your heart beat if you can hear that. The point isn't so much to clear the mind as to start taking control of the direction of your thoughts.

[reach_within]

That's it?

[its_the_cape]

*opens an eye* For now. It's harder than you think. The mind tends to wander a lot without you meaning to.

[reach_within]

[fine. closing eyes. INTENSE LOOK OF CONCENTRATION?!]

[its_the_cape]

*eyes closed again* Relax... Find a rhythm and focus... Start filtering out the excess... Take conscious control of your thoughts and focus on the rhythm...

*Falling silent and going into meditation.*

[reach_within]

[meanwhile, the frustration on this end is probably tangible.]