10% Happier with Dan Harris How to Actually Be Present | Matthew Brensilver
51 snips
Dec 22, 2023 
Matthew Brensilver, a meditation teacher and co-author on adolescence mindfulness, dives deep into the essence of being present. He tackles the overwhelming nature of intrusive memories during meditation and the brain's predictive tendencies. With insights on mindfulness as a form of exposure therapy, he emphasizes treating past experiences as sensations for emotional healing. Brensilver also discusses the profound benefits of meditation retreats, encouraging listeners to embrace uncertainty and cultivate a compassionate relationship with their thoughts.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Being Present
- Being present means not identifying with discursive thoughts, but rather having metacognitive awareness of the present moment.
- True presence involves surrendering vigilance about the future and being open to the present, even if momentarily.
Approaching Mindfulness
- Define mindfulness in a workable way initially, but understand that its meaning deepens with practice.
- Don't get discouraged by lofty definitions of presence; instead, approach it with curiosity and wonder.
Avoid Self-Assessment
- Avoid measuring your meditation practice against rigid definitions of mindfulness.
- See lofty descriptions as inspiration, and appreciate the vastness of these qualities of mind.
