I agree it can definitely be confusing exactly how to be "present" and I think we definitely need more discussion on the types of problems or doubts you describe. However, I can tell you it shouldn't feel forced. I wouldn't try to sustain attention in one bodily sensation if it feels unpleasant, but on your body's "energy field". I bet when you feel that you are forcing it that there is actually some muscular tension in your body or in your face that creeps in when you try too hard to focus on something else. Eckharte Tolle said there is one metric by which to judge your degree of success in being present - and that is the peacefulness of your mind.
|