The Lazy Yogi

odd-bean asked: I hope you can offer some of your wisdom on this problem. How does one come to peace with a mental illness like depression? I have attempted accepting that it is so, it stays and my mind is never peaceful. Should I continue to accept it? It hurts others to see me. I find meditation is difficult because unpleasant events replay in my mind and I come out of it feeling bad. Is it wise to persevere? Is it better to focus inward, or to turn my focus outward when meditating? (If that makes sense)

When you meditate, simply focus on the space between your eyebrows. Rest your attention there, like watching a TV screen.

These unpleasant events replaying in your mind do not exist. They are not happening now. They are memories which you are reacting to. When you let go of memory and become present, there is nothing from the past that can hurt you. 

Focus your attention on the Now, not on the past. The past is an illusion created through memory. The now is all that exists.

When memories and emotions enter your attention, just watch them. Don’t react to them by trying to push them away or analyze them. Just watch without being bothered about what it is your mind is showing you. Become the watcher rather than the illusory identification that you are what you are watching. 

There is no such thing as a peaceful mind. Minds are by nature restless things. When you can be present without feeling the compulsive need to use your mind, you will find peace. 

You can be at peace with any emotion you are feeling now, even depression. Peace is not an emotion, it is a state of presence and acceptance. When you stop trying to run away from or hold on to emotions, you will find peace amidst change. 

It is easy to become depressed when you look outwardly for the things you need to find inwardly. Outward happiness is not dependable because outward things are always changing. The only stable kind of peace and happiness you can find is by going inward and discovering what has always and will always be here in you. 

Persevere in meditation, absolutely. It isn’t always easy but it will always be rewarding. I also highly recommend you read the book The Power of Now, as it will give you a good idea about what all of this is anyway. 

Namaste :) much love