Back to Articles
CALM

Meditation FAQs: Common Questions Answered

Learn the right way to meditate, how long to practice, and solutions to common meditation challenges like sleepiness and distractions.

TARA HEALEY
Jul 21, 2025
2 min read(383 words)
Meditation FAQs: Common Questions Answered

1. Is There a Right or Wrong Way to Meditate?

Many beginners worry they're "doing it wrong" because their mind stays busy. Here's the truth:

  • Meditation isn't about stopping thoughts - It's about noticing when you're distracted and gently returning focus
  • The process is simple:
    1. Choose an anchor (breath, sound, body sensation)
    2. When distracted, notice and return
    3. Repeat
  • All meditation techniques share this basic pattern of awareness and return

2. How Long Should I Meditate Each Day?

Building a meditation habit works best when you:

  • Start small (5-10 minutes daily)
  • Be consistent rather than ambitious
  • Gradually increase time as comfort grows

Think of it like exercise - regular short sessions beat occasional marathons.

3. Will Meditation Make Me Less Productive?

Common myth debunked:

  • Meditation enhances focus and decision-making
  • You become more responsive rather than reactive
  • Studies show improved workplace performance

4. Can I Use Meditation Apps?

Guided meditation apps are:

  • Great for beginners
  • Helpful for establishing routine
  • Optional - many transition to silent practice

5. Why Do I Fall Asleep Meditating?

Solutions for sleepiness:

  • Check your sleep hygiene
  • Try morning meditation
  • Adjust posture (stand or sit upright)
  • Open your eyes slightly

6. Best Meditation Postures

You don't need special equipment:

  • Chair sitting (most accessible)
  • Cushion (traditional but optional)
  • Standing or walking (good alternatives)

Key points: Comfortable yet alert spine position

7. Handling Boredom and Anxiety

These common experiences actually:

  • Reveal how your mind works
  • Become part of the practice
  • Pass naturally with continued attention

8. Managing Physical Discomfort

For meditation pain:

  1. First observe sensations
  2. Make small adjustments
  3. Change position if needed

9. Should I Stop My Thoughts?

Critical insight:

  • Thinking is natural
  • The goal isn't emptiness
  • Practice is noticing thoughts without getting caught in them

10. What If I Have Important Thoughts?

You can:

  • Briefly note ideas to return to later
  • Trust truly important thoughts will return
  • Keep paper nearby if needed

Quick Meditation Tips

  • Itching? Try mental scratching first
  • Breathing? Natural rhythm is fine
  • Eyes? Open or closed - experiment
  • Pets? Let them be unless too distracting

Remember: Meditation is a practice, not perfection. Every session counts!

TARA HEALEY

Related Articles