Coping Strategy #2: Visual Meditation And Dyslexia

Feeling restless the moment you try to meditate? You’re not alone. This episode dives into why meditation can be tricky for our dyslexic minds and how a few simple techniques can make all the difference. If you’re ready to find a new way to clear your head, keep reading.

This discussion focuses on the real-life challenges of sitting still and “not thinking.” We explore how meditation can feel like torture, especially when you have that constant stream of thoughts whizzing around. Yet once you discover a flow that suits your busy brain, the effects can be truly brilliant. Below, I break down some key insights and practical tips to help you get started.

Why Meditation Feels So Tricky

Meditation is often sold as a cure-all for stress, focus, and relaxation. But if you’re dyslexic, the typical advice—like repeating a single mantra or “emptying your mind”—can feel impossible. For many of us, focusing on nothing is like asking a puppy to stay still when it’s bursting with energy.

It’s not that our brains can’t calm down. It’s that standard approaches don’t quite click. We end up forcing ourselves to do something that doesn’t feel natural, and that pressure can lead to more stress.

“Sitting still, not thinking could actually be torture.”

When I first heard those words, I knew I wasn’t alone. It’s reassuring to realise that dyslexic and ADHD minds often crave movement and variety. That’s why it’s important to find techniques that align with how we think, rather than fighting our natural tendencies.

Breaking the Myth of “No Thinking”

A big misconception is that meditation means total silence in your head. In reality, meditation is more about awareness. Not every moment has to be stillness and peace. Sometimes, meditation is observing the thoughts that come up, allowing them to be there, and letting them pass without judgement.

When you drop the expectation of having a blank mind, you release a ton of pressure. Instead, you can focus on methods that guide your attention in a gentle way. Movement-based or guided meditations might be better if you find sitting quietly too challenging at first.

The Power of Daily Practice

The thing about meditation is that it works best when you do it regularly, even if it’s just short bursts. Consistency trumps perfection. You’ll gradually notice subtle improvements in your focus, mood, and overall sense of calm.

In time, your mind may start wandering less. You might find you’re more aware of your own emotions. You could even feel lighter overall, as meditation helps shift daily stress to something more manageable.

• Start with small sessions—5 or 10 minutes is plenty.
• Try guided meditations, especially if your mind struggles to be still.
• Experiment with music or ambient sounds in the background.
• Use an app or timer so you don’t have to watch the clock.

Dr Joe Dispenza’s Morning & Evening Meditations

One of my go-to choices is Dr Joe Dispenza’s morning and evening meditations. They’re straightforward yet powerful, and his voice is calm enough to keep you present. If you’d like to check them out, you can find them here:

Dr Joe Dispenza’s Morning & Evening Meditations

Why do these work so well for a dyslexic brain? The approach is immersive, guiding you through visualisations that engage your imagination rather than fighting it. You may find yourself looking forward to them each day.

He offers a warm, steady cadence that helps you stay focused. And because there’s a clear structure, you don’t have to worry about what to do next. You just follow along and let the process unfold.

Key Takeaways

• Meditation isn’t about shutting down every thought, but about awareness.
• Dyslexic minds often need flexible or guided forms of meditation.
• Daily practice helps build lasting focus and calm.
• Dr Joe Dispenza’s visualisations provide a dyslexia-friendly approach.
• Even short sessions or mindful moments can have a big impact.

If you’re curious to hear more about how I use meditation daily, and want deeper insights on stepping into that “flow” state with dyslexia, the podcast player at the top of this page has all the juicy details. So give it a listen and see how you can make meditation a powerful tool in your life.