What Is A Sitting Practice?

Different Than Meditation

One of the ways a sitting practice is different than traditional meditation is that we are practicing feeling our whole body, not just focusing on the breath. We are practicing noticing what self-narratives are present, what moods and emotions are present, and what’s happening in our body on a sensation level. This is a time to deeply connect with yourself, practice living in your body in a way that supports the commitment you are moving toward, as well as strengthen your capacity to keep your attention on what’s happening in your body.

Mindfulness Can Be Too Vague

Simply sitting and practicing mindfulness can mean different things to different people. The problem is that mindfulness is a concept, and in this work we want to be practical and specific. Finding a somatic coach to help you customize and support your sitting practice based on your needs, your past traumas, and what it is you want for yourself can be important. This is not a one size fits all practice. Many of my clients have questions about the logistics and procedure of their sitting practice. For example, should they practice with eyes open or closed? What should they do if it becomes too challenging to feel their body for a sustained period of time? Having an experienced practitioner to consult with is part of creating a practice that honors the time and energy you are dedicating to your practice. A sitting practice needs to be relevant to you or it’s unlikely you will choose to stick with it.

A Couple Variations On How To Practice

Below are a couple of possible ways to get started and begin to explore sitting. In general, I will offer these variations to clients who express interest in beginning a practice. I typically recommend they start with just 5 minutes, or possibly 15 minutes if they have some prior experience. Again, there are all sorts of ways to modify your practice, and especially when you are working with past trauma it can be important to discuss appropriate modifications with your coach.

Outside Connecting With Nature

I will often do this practice outside seated and looking out over a nice scenery or something in nature. If you like to do it that way, you can practice taking your attention out to what it is you are seeing/ sensing and then back to your body. Out again and then back to your body. Ultimately we are building that capacity within ourselves to be both out extended in the world and connected with people and nature, as well as be within ourselves and aware of what’s happening in our body. 

Inside With Eyes Open Or Closed

You can also practice this inside with eyes open or closed. In this case, you may decide to make the practice more of a body scan. As you move your attention from the top of your head down to your toes, where do you feel alive? What’s the sensation there? Where do you feel numb or tight? Can you sit with that area in your body and be with it/ listen to it? What’s the shape, color, texture you notice? Can you breathe into that area of your body? Your mind will wander; simply come back to sensation.

For more support on trauma-informed embodiment practices, contact me to schedule a somatic coaching session.