How do I eliminate unwanted thoughts?

The most common problem among sqdhaks is – too many thoughts, not just in meditation but also during the daytime.

One of the time-proven techniques for this problem is to focus on the breath.

One cannot start their meditation by simply being a witness when a barrage of thoughts is flowing in and out of their mind.

It is essential to reduce the number of thoughts first.

For that, watching your breath is a potent technique.

Breath is not just a breath; it is a life-giver.

Neglecting it just as a mere ( ordinary ) breath is a big mistake.

Only when one actually starts “seeing” (watching it keenly) does the breath reveal its real value.

At first, this technique will be beneficial only for reducing thoughts.

But, realizing its actual value raises it to a different level.

Realize this – each breath brings sextillion molecules ( 25 followed by 21 zeros ) from the world into your body, each molecule representing some object or a person.
Imagine some of these molecules might have stayed in Buddha’s, Mahavir’s, or Jesus’s body.

You can literally imagine that the whole universe is pouring into you to keep you alive.

This realization alone can bring you gratitude for what you thought was just a simple breath.

And when you breathe out, realize that you are reaching out and connecting with the same universe that made you breathe in the first place.

So, literally, gratifyingly, you can realize that every breath is a dance of the universe, happening every second, and you are a mere puppet in this cosmic dance.

By staying constantly aware of such a vital component of life, one rises above many mundane things, and this calms the mind.

This helps the meditation significantly.

Additionally, one can practice the same breathing technique throughout the day.

Whenever you are alone, remain aware of your breath, and you will realize that thoughts will naturally disappear.

You will still think, but only when you need it.

This way, one can meditate and also live a meditative life.

Try this simple technique day in and day out, and see yourself rising spiritually, significantly.