When we are not at our best, it can feel like our minds are cloudy. It can be so hard to think clearly as the thoughts keep swirling. 

So when we notice this during mindfulness or meditation practice, instead of trying to make ourselves settle down, we could set the intention not to make it cloudier. 

What this means is refraining from adding more silt and dirt to the cloudy water (more stress, thinking or judgement), or stirring it up more (restlessness, distraction, for example). By using the body as a base, we can see if we find some settledness and solidity. And if we can’t touch into that, then we can pay attention to what information the body is providing about its needs, such as sleep, rest or exercise. As we watch and trust what is being revealed in the body, heart and mind without additional judgement or comments, we may find that the water slowly settles! 

By doing less, we may find the peace and clarity that we were looking for.