Magic Forums

Blessings everyone,

I used to meditate often. After an amazing spiritual experience I had encountering a stranger (I'll make another post about that later), I decided I have strayed from meditation for too long which will ultimately weaken my ability to perform rituals well. Plus, I've simply lost touch from my magickal self/beliefs without it. So, I've brought it back into my life.

When I meditate, I literally get anxious when Guided Meditation videos keep telling you to focus heavily on your breathing. Why, you're wondering? I am diagnosed with mild asthma/am a smoker (yes, I know, quit!). Occasionally, my chest feels like it's tightening up as a result of the asthma symptoms/humidity(big trigger for it).

So, does anyone have any thoughts or advice on how I can approach meditation more easily when this is happening? Do I have to solely focus on the breaths? It's easier for me to breathe naturally, not deeply when this happens. Any anxiety reducing tips during my attempts?

Thank you!