Why does the mind resist mindfulness?
Short Answer
Because mindfulness interrupts habitual coping strategies like rumination, planning, and distraction. The mind may interpret stillness as unsafe or unproductive. Resistance is a pattern to observe, not a problem to win against.
Why This Matters
Difficulty is often the first honest signal of what your mind normally avoids. Understanding common friction states prevents you from mislabeling practice as “not working.” The skill is returning without self-attack.
Where This Changes
If practice increases anxiety or agitation, the adjustment is usually less intensity, not more willpower. Use shorter sessions, soften effort, and choose anchors that feel stabilizing.