Misconceptions about meditation and mindfulness?

[Infinite Unity]

So my mom is of the belief one needs to "empty one's mind" in order to properly meditate/be mindful.

Something tells me that ain't right, but I dunno exactly what to recommend she go for in it's place.

What I try to do is focus on nothing but my breathing, or to count my breaths and focus on nothing but the breaths and/or number count.

Still, I notice that I'm thinking at least to some level ABOUT focusing instead on the breaths/count.

and I dunno if that counts as being truly mindful.


What misconceptions may either of us possibly be having which may get in the way of successful meditation?

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