Both, ha ha. Guided is very helpful to reify the atructure and ind instruction. Ultimately unguided is deeper and more satisfying.
Usually guided. My mind wanders a lot and it likes to follow along so I feel I get better results when I use guided meditation.
Guided but I often go off script, typically making use of prompts from previous guided sessions
Depends on the day, and who is doing the guiding. Some voices are just more meditative for me than others.. but sometimes I just want to be uninterrupted and to listen to something soothing I enjoy.
I prefer guided meditations. They help me to stay in the present moment using a variety of techniques. Occasionally, I’ll do an unguided meditation simply for the peace it brings.
Guided, since I’m a beginner I’m finding it easier to stay focused that way.
I prefer guided and semi guided meditation, but I also do 7 minutes of unguided meditation with prana breathing everyday.
I prefer guided as I need some external prompts to stay on task, I vary the practice to keep the ideas fresh and find insight timer (app) essential for supporting a sticky meditation habit after literally years of believing I don’t have the mental strength for it.
Guided; helps me keep my focus on my breath and my mind is less likely to wander
Guided versus unguided meditation? Well for me, I need both. I like to use the guided ones that create beautiful mental pictures, they help me look for beauty in my every day life. I like to use the ones that tell you that you need to be sitting down to use this meditation while taking a walk on a safe path to build muscle memory of calm when out in the world. And, I love spontaneous meditation of memories and how my experiences have shaped my life. Remembering without creating a critical assessment. Looking at how I use others to create non-acceptance of myself... nonjudgementaly... not good or bad... just is. ...Meditate how I focus outward and accept myself and my world ... how others respond to being accepted by me...it simply is...not good or bad.
Answers reflect the personal experiences of Fabulous community members. They are not medical or professional advice — for guidance about your health, talk to a qualified professional.