60 To 90 Min Meditation: What To Expect?

Hey everyone!

So, you're thinking about kicking your meditation up a notch, huh? That's awesome! You've been clocking in an hour of meditation, and now you're eyeing that 90-minute mark. The big question is: Will you actually notice a difference? Well, let's dive into what you might expect when you stretch out those Anapana sessions.

Diving Deeper: What Happens When You Extend Your Meditation Time?

Alright, so you're used to the 60-minute mark. Your mind probably starts to settle around 20 minutes in, and then you get some decent focus for the remaining time. But what happens when you add that extra 30 minutes? That's where things can get interesting.

• Initial Resistance: First off, expect some resistance. Your mind and body are creatures of habit. They know the 60-minute drill. That extra half-hour? It's new territory, and your brain might throw a little tantrum. You might find yourself getting restless, fidgety, or just plain bored. Don't sweat it; this is totally normal.
• Deeper States of Calm: Once you push past that initial resistance, though, you might find yourself sinking into a much deeper state of calm. Think of it like warming up an engine. It takes a while to get to the optimal temperature, but once it's there, it runs smoother and more efficiently. Those extra 30 minutes can allow you to bypass the surface-level distractions and tap into a more profound sense of peace.
• Increased Awareness: With more time to observe your breath and your thoughts, you might also notice an increase in awareness. You start catching those subtle shifts in your mental state, the little impulses that usually fly under the radar. This heightened awareness is a game-changer for your practice and your daily life.
• Dealing with Discomfort: Let's be real, longer meditations can bring up some uncomfortable stuff. Maybe it's physical discomfort from sitting for so long, or maybe it's emotional baggage that you've been avoiding. The good news is that facing these discomforts head-on can be incredibly liberating. It's like cleaning out a closet – it's messy at first, but once you're done, you feel lighter and more free.

Real Experiences: What Others Are Saying

I can't speak for everyone, but I've definitely noticed a difference when I've extended my meditation sessions. For me, that extra time allows me to really settle into the practice. It's like the difference between dipping your toes in the water and going for a full swim.

I've heard similar stories from others as well. Some people find that longer meditations help them break through mental barriers, while others simply enjoy the deeper sense of relaxation. Of course, everyone's experience is different, so the best way to find out is to try it for yourself.

Anapana and Extended Meditation: A Perfect Match?

Since you're focusing on Anapana (mindfulness of breathing), extending your meditation time can be particularly beneficial. Anapana is all about cultivating focus and awareness, and the more time you spend with your breath, the better you become at both.

• Sharper Focus: With longer Anapana sessions, you'll likely find that your focus becomes sharper and more sustained. You'll be able to stay with your breath for longer periods without getting distracted, and when your mind does wander, you'll be able to bring it back more quickly.
• Deeper Relaxation: Anapana is also a powerful tool for relaxation. By focusing on your breath, you can calm your nervous system and reduce stress. The longer you practice, the more deeply relaxed you'll become.
• Insight and Clarity: As your mind becomes quieter and more focused, you may also start to experience moments of insight and clarity. You might gain a new understanding of yourself, your life, or the world around you. These insights can be incredibly valuable, helping you to make better decisions and live a more fulfilling life.

Tips for Extending Your Meditation Time

Okay, so you're ready to take the plunge and extend your meditation sessions. Here are a few tips to help you make the transition:

1. Start Slowly: Don't jump straight from 60 minutes to 90 minutes. Instead, gradually increase your time by 5-10 minutes each week. This will give your mind and body time to adjust.
2. Create a Comfortable Environment: Make sure you're meditating in a quiet, comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. This will help you relax and focus.
3. Set an Intention: Before you start meditating, take a moment to set an intention for your practice. What do you hope to achieve? By setting an intention, you'll give your meditation a sense of purpose and direction.
4. Be Patient: It takes time to develop a consistent meditation practice. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results right away. Just keep showing up and doing the work, and eventually, you'll start to experience the benefits.
5. Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and approaches. What works for one person might not work for another. Find what resonates with you and stick with it.

Why Everyone...? Addressing the Follow-Up Question

Now, let's tackle that follow-up question: "Why everyone...?" I'm guessing you're wondering why everyone doesn't meditate for longer periods if it's so beneficial. Well, there are a few reasons:

• Time Constraints: Let's face it, life is busy. Many people struggle to find even 10-20 minutes a day to meditate, let alone 90 minutes. It's a matter of priorities and making time for what's important to you.
• Discomfort and Resistance: As I mentioned earlier, longer meditations can bring up discomfort and resistance. Some people find this too challenging to overcome, and they prefer to stick with shorter sessions.
• Perceived Lack of Results: Not everyone experiences immediate or dramatic results from meditation. Some people give up before they have a chance to see the benefits.
• Misconceptions: There are still many misconceptions about meditation. Some people think it's only for monks or spiritual gurus, while others think it's too difficult or time-consuming. These misconceptions can prevent people from even trying it.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Some people simply prefer shorter meditations, while others find that longer sessions are more effective for them.

Finding What Works for You

The key is to find a meditation practice that works for you and that you can stick with consistently. Whether that's 10 minutes a day or 90 minutes, the most important thing is to show up and do the work. Over time, you'll start to experience the benefits of meditation, both on and off the cushion.

So, should you extend your meditation time to 90 minutes? If you're feeling called to do so, I say go for it! Just be prepared for some initial resistance, and remember to be patient with yourself. With consistent practice, you might just find that those extra 30 minutes make a world of difference.

Happy meditating, everyone! Let me know how it goes!