When we engage in conscious meditation we develop the ability to witness our thoughts, emotions, inner sensations, and the sensations of interacting with the world around us as they arise.
Sounds, smells, temperature, sensations of weight and texture all become simply experiences to note; to witness. Both internally and externally stimulated experiences can be acknowledged and allowed to pass. By using the breath as a center of awareness we can become aware of our sensations, thoughts, and emotions, observe them and return to the breath without judgment.
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