LibraryScenariosWhen meditation triggers anxiety instead of calm
Scenario

When meditation triggers anxiety instead of calm

My breath becomes shallow and tight every time I sit to meditate and I have tried everything but nothing works and I am starting to panic during practice

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More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Past trauma stored in the nervous system is activated by stillness and inward attention, requiring therapeutic intervention alongside contemplative practice.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Apprenticeship across traditions?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.