We’ve all been there.

“My arm itches…Did I remember to turn off the stove…Is that a bird I hear in the background?”

If you’re like most, the thoughts I just described have come up many times during your meditation practice.

On days like this, meditation can feel anything BUT relaxing.

However, there are three things you can do to reclaim your practice.

First, recognize that your mind is on autopilot.

Autopilot is when your mind runs like a broken record. Don’t judge these thoughts.

Your goal is not to get rid of autopilot, but to accept it. Autopilot thinking is just a part of life.

The more you recognize just what is happening, the easier it will be to move into a state of mindful awareness.

Second, be gentle with yourself.

When your mind wanders, be compassionate with yourself. In other words, treat yourself the way you would treat anyone you love.

Be kind in your inner dialogue. After all, you’re only human. Nothing in life is perfect-meditation included.

Third, redirect your attention.

Try counting breaths to quiet your mind. This simple distraction will often take the mind to a more peaceful place.

A wandering mind is just a part of life. But this is by no means a reason to give up on meditation. It is what it is…and understanding this makes accepting the chaos a lot easier.