In short: restlessness is one of the five hindrances, and it often comes from pushing too hard: "when energy is too forceful it leads to restlessness" (AN 6.55). Soften, slow the out-breath, or get up and walk.
- 〰 Longer out-breath than in-breath
- 🎻 Soften effort (not too tight)
- 🚶 Walk slowly (how)
- 🔢 Count breaths 1 to 10 (how)
The five hindrances · 1-minute breathing
Questions people ask
Why am I so restless when I meditate?
Restlessness is one of the five hindrances, and often comes from trying too hard: 'when energy is too forceful it leads to restlessness' (AN 6.55). Soften, lengthen the out-breath, or walk.