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Comment by arbre | Hacker News Reader

I suffered from depression for several years. What worked eventually is meditation. I meditate 1 hour every day in a meditation center and I participate regularly in retreats and I feel happier every day.

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You tend to have to "come to" mindfulness though -- in my personal experience you can't just wander over to someone with depression and go "oh, meditate and you'll feel better". They wouldn't know why they were meditating or what it was trying to achieve. You need to come to understand the mechanisms in your mind that cause the symptoms before you can take action to mitigate them and that wisdom unfortunately usually only comes with time.

I would love if you would be willing to spare more details. I'm looking to start learning how to meditate. What worked for you? Where did you start?

A good posture, focusing on the moment, the sensations, the breathing, accepting the thoughts but not feeding them. Do that every day and be patient. It is best to practice with other people as more experienced people can guide you. Some people start right away with a retreat. It is also a good way to start.

I... need a guide or something. I expect I'll do more research this weekend, but just sitting and listening to myself breathe? I have plenty of calmness in my life, but surely there's a difference between meditation and relaxation?

Sorry, not really directing this at you, its late, kinda just stream of consciousing before sleep. I do appreciate your response : )

Check out https://www.headspace.com/ They have guided meditation that I really like. At least give the 10 free days a shot and see what you think, nothing to lose!

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