How does one master not thinking?
If I’m exercising I’m keeping counts or a running commentary. If I’m meditating like with a prayer I’m conscious of my inner voice saying the prayer. If I’m daydreaming, there are constant scenarios playing out. Even my dreams are filled with multi layers of awareness, with one layer as the narrator. If I’m reading I visualize while the characters voices are talking aloud. If I’m alone, I’m singing without realizing.
My mind never stops. I wish it would.
@ChippySuave
Concentration on breath doesn't work for me, because I have allergies and it's not a pleasant thing to concentrate on.
I close my eyes and wait for repeating patterns of dark and light colors to start. I assume it indicates my brain going into alpha rhythms, and I can see the two hemispheres do it separately as the patterns start in one visual field and then spread to the other. You have to get rid of the chatter in your brain for it to start.
@EileenKCarpenter @ChippySuave
I used to hold my hands over my eyes and watch the colors. It can be cool to watch!
Personally, I can't clear my mind without a physical anchor - hot water bottle usually works for me. I focus all of my attention on the heat.