A Guided 10-Minute Meditation Practice (plus music)

In this episode, I offer a guided meditation and explore what it really means to not be trying —not striving to get somewhere, even in practice. Rather than exerting effort or resisting, meditation invites us to let go again and again and rest in a state of receptivity. We look at how love, insight, and creativity are not things we can get , but things we receive , and how meditation teaches us to rest in that open space. I also clarify common misconceptions about meditation—especially the idea that we must stop thinking—and instead suggest developing awareness of thought rather than control over it. We end with a reflection on attention, presence, and the natural rhythm of the breath, followed by a story about one of my favorite songs, “Blue Sky” by The Allman Brothers Band, and the beauty of two voices joining in spontaneous harmony. Highlights: Letting go of striving and resting in presence The art of receiving rather than seeking Thoughts as part of awareness, not the enemy of it Attention as placement, not analysis The connection between meditation, creativity, and love Closing reflection: “ Blue Sky ” by The Allman Brothers Band Watch this episode on video If you’d like to watch the podcast, the video version is available here . Ask me a question You can send your questions via Instagram DM or through our form — I’d love to include them in future episodes. Learn to Teach Meditation The Open Heart Project Meditation Teacher Training returns this January. We begin January 17th, 2026. I teach every session. It’s intimate, rigorous, supportive—and it’s for anyone who wants to help others work with their own minds and hearts. Click here to learn more & sign up. If you enjoyed this episode: Please rate, review, and share it with a friend who’s curious about mindfulness, spiritual commitment, or the Buddhist path. For more on Buddhist teachings and how our humanity isn’t necessarily in our way, sign up for my free weekly newsletter or join the Open Heart Project sangha for more connection with community and with me. If this podcast has been meaningful to you, it would be great if you would subscribe, give it a five star rating and share it with a friend. To join or learn more about The Open Heart Project please visit openheartproject.com . Thoughts? Email us at info@susanpiver.com Produced by Citizens of Sound Music by: Derek O'Brien ©Open Heart Project