Meditation is gaining popularity for its benefits in reducing stress, and anxiety and promoting well-being. But, what if you feel strange or “weird” after meditating? Well, you’re not alone!
You might feel weird after meditating due to changes in brain chemistry, shifts in awareness, or the release of repressed emotions. These sensations are normal and can be a sign that your practice is working. Allow yourself time to adjust and continue your meditation session.
In this article, we’re going to explore why this happens and what you can do to cope with it.
What is meditation
Meditation is a practice for training the mind to be present and focused. It involves focusing your attention on a specific object, such as your breath, a mantra, or a visualization. As you meditate, you may notice that your mind wanders and becomes distracted by thoughts or sensations. The goal of meditation is to notice these distractions and gently guide your attention back to your chosen object.
There are many different types of meditation, but they all share the goal of promoting inner peace and relaxation. Some examples include mindfulness meditation, loving-kindness meditation, and guided visualization.
The “Weird” Sensation After Meditating
So why do some people experience a “weird” sensation after meditating? There are several factors that can contribute to these sensations. Here are some of the most common reasons.
Changes in brain chemistry
During meditation, the brain undergoes significant changes in activity, including increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive functions such as decision-making and impulse control. These changes can result in altered brain chemistry, which can lead you to feel disoriented, dizzy, or detached.
Shifting awareness
Meditation involves shifting your awareness away from external stimuli and focusing on your internal experiences, such as your breath or your thoughts. Many will find this sudden shift in awareness disorienting at first, especially if one is used to being constantly stimulated by external stimuli.
Physical discomfort
Sitting in one position for an extended period of time can lead to physical discomfort, such as numbness or tingling in the legs or arms. Experiencing such discomfort can be distracting and can make the entire meditation process challenging, and prevent one from maintaining total focus.
Emotional release
Meditation can also trigger emotional release as you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions. This release can take the form of crying, laughing, or feeling overwhelmed, and can be uncomfortable or even distressing for some people. Some may even feel ashamed of these sensations when meditating in a group session.
Weird sensations that one can experience during meditation
Here is a list of some weird sensations that one can experience during meditation:
- Feeling of disorientation: During mediation, you may feel a sense of being lost or disoriented, as if you are not sure where you are or what you are doing.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness: Experiencing a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness during meditation is totally normal. This can be caused by changes in blood pressure or circulation that can occur during meditation.
- Tingling or numbness: Being still for an extended period of time, which is common during meditation can bring on the sensation of tingling or numbness in your hands, feet, or other parts of your body. This is caused by changes in blood flow or nerve activity.
- Sense of detachment: When meditating, you may feel a sense of detachment from your surroundings or from your own thoughts and emotions, as if you are watching them from a distance.
- Vivid or unusual mental images: Experiencing vivid or unusual mental images, such as bright colors or abstract shapes during meditation is totally normal. This can come as a result of increased activity in certain parts of the brain.
- Sensation of energy: You may feel a sensation of energy or vibration in your body, which can be a result of increased blood flow or activation of the nervous system.
- Emotional release: During mediation, you may experience a release of emotions, such as crying or laughing. This is often a result of the relaxation and introspection that comes with practicing meditation.
It’s important to remember that not everyone will experience these sensations during meditation and that they are not necessarily a sign that something is wrong. It’s always a good idea to talk to a meditation teacher or healthcare professional if you have concerns about your meditation practice or any strange sensations you may be experiencing.
Coping with “Weird” Sensations After Meditating
If you experience these strange and uncomfortable sensations during or after your meditation practice, there are several things you can do to cope with them:
Take a break
If you are feeling overwhelmed or disoriented, it’s okay to take a break from meditating. Take some time to ground yourself by taking a few deep breaths or doing some gentle stretches.
Adjust your practice
If physical discomfort is making it difficult to focus during meditation, try adjusting your posture or using cushions or blankets to make yourself more comfortable. You can also try shorter meditation sessions or different types of meditation to see what works best for you.
Practice self-care
After meditation, take some time to practice self-care, such as taking a warm bath, going for a walk, or listening to calming music. This can help you process any emotions that may have come up during your practice and help you feel more grounded.
Feeling “weird” after meditating is not uncommon, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, from changes in brain chemistry to physical discomfort. By understanding why you might experience these sensations and practicing self-care and self-compassion, you can continue to enjoy the many benefits of meditation while managing any discomfort that may arise.
Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and be gentle with yourself as you explore the world of meditation.
