---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: In sitting meditation, our practice is to…"
description: "\"“In sitting meditation, our practice is to watch our thoughts arise, label them \"thinking\", and return to the breath.”\" — Pema Chödrön"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/8af/pema-ch-dr-n-327_meditation_in-sitting-meditation-our-practice-is-to_2837008.png"
---

#  In sitting meditation, our practice is to watch our…

![“In sitting meditation, our practice is to watch our thoughts arise, label them &quot;thinking&quot;, and return to the breath.” quote by Pema Chödrön](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/8af/pema-ch-dr-n-327_meditation_in-sitting-meditation-our-practice-is-to_2837008.png)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/8af/pema-ch-dr-n-327_meditation_in-sitting-meditation-our-practice-is-to_2837008.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/8af/pema-ch-dr-n-327_meditation_in-sitting-meditation-our-practice-is-to_2837008.png)

> ““In sitting meditation, our practice is to watch our thoughts arise, label them "thinking", and return to the breath.””

[Pema Chödrön](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/pema-ch-dr-n/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Meditation involves observing thoughts, labeling them, and gently returning focus to breath.

**In simple terms:** Watch thoughts, name them, refocus on breathing.

Key Takeaway

Practice labeling thoughts to stay present.

Themes

mindfulness meditation self‑awareness

Mood

peaceful centered

Type

practical inspirational

When to use this quote

- stress reduction
- daily mindfulness
- therapy sessions

Key Concepts

Buddhist practice cognitive psychology

Questions to Reflect On

- How does labeling affect your concentration?
- Can you stay present without labeling?

A Different Perspective

Labeling can become a mental habit that distracts from true presence.

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[Meditation](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/meditation/) [Meditation practice](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/meditation-practice/) [Philosophy of Mind](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/philosophy-of-mind/) [Practice](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/practice/)

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