In earlier modules we have noted the three types of meditations and to keep things simple (because I love simple) let’s look at the three main types of levels of meditating. These levels are all related to the mind how deep you are going within it.

Light

More often than not, this can be done with your eyes open or closed for a minute. Many breathing exercises flow in a light meditation and now movement meditations are also gaining popularity, walking meditations have become very popular tool in a self-care routine.

All meditations will start in a light manner until you transition downwards and settle in. Your mind is completely aware in this state, and you are easily distracted in this stage.

Medium

This is where most “Guided” and “Open Monitoring” meditations live. In this level you are starting to feel different sensations and possibly seeing different visuals, like geometry, when your eyes are closed. It is very common to also see washes of color flood your eyes here too. At this level your mind still feels completely awake and some distractions are present, but your body may feel like it is starting to sleep.

Deep

This is where deep focused meditation lives as well as effortless presents. Your body is completely asleep, and your mind is still able to be conscious, but you don’t feel in control of your thoughts, they seem to be more random, or you are being shown things.

As you start to progress in your practice, pay attention to the different levels and you should start to feel the difference between and establish when you are about to cross a threshold and when you have slipped down to a lower level or up to a higher level. With practice you will be able to hold yourself at various levels or bring yourself to a desired level. This will only be possible when you know those thresholds backwards and forwards.

Falling Asleep.

Don’t worry if you fall asleep when you first start out especially if you are using a guided meditation. It’s actually a good sign that you are comfortable and feeling safe. There is a lot of studies that are showing even after someone fell asleep there was still activity in the brain so the meditation will still count. Just take your time looking for those thresholds and slowing yourself down when you feel yourself cross over, remember your target will be a medium level. Some ways to hold levels that you may want to try are shifting your focus to a body part then back to the voice narrating the meditation or even reminding yourself in your minds voice that, that is far enough. But certainly, DO NOT beat yourself up about it!!! It is very normal, and everyone has done it from time to time.

In the support page is one of my most popular meditations called “The Lake”. I would like you to do this one every day for the next week. Make sure you log your progress in your log. 🙂