Settling into the boundless clarity of Mahamudra often feels like jumping into open water for the first time—exciting, exhilarating…and a little unsettling. Minds accustomed to constant noise may stumble over a few familiar hurdles:

1. Restlessness and agitation
   When thoughts pile up like unread notifications, the cushion can start to feel confining. Anchoring attention on the breath, without forcing it, helps. Imagine settling into each inhale and exhale as if listening to a favorite song on repeat—gradually, the mind relaxes its grip.

2. Dullness or sleepiness
   The opposite extreme of restlessness, this haze creeps in when alertness wanes. Adjusting posture (a subtle lift of the chest, a soft gaze rather than closed eyes) often sparks fresh wakefulness. A quick stretch or brief outdoor pause—perhaps stepping onto a balcony to feel the breeze—can act like a mini reset button.

3. Overthinking and conceptualizing
   Mahamudra invites letting go of stories the mind loves to spin. When “shoulds” and “oughts” surface (“This isn’t deep enough,” “Am I doing it right?”), simply noting “thinking” without judgment loosens their hold. Picture those thoughts as clouds drifting across an open sky: they appear, drift, then disappear on their own.

4. Physical discomfort
   Sitting still can awaken old aches. Instead of fighting pain, acknowledging it can transform tension into awareness. Gently shifting position or using a cushion for support honors the body’s wisdom and keeps practice sustainable.

5. Doubt and discouragement
   Especially when progress seems invisible, doubt can feel like a roadblock. Remember that even seasoned practitioners face ups and downs—much like athletes hitting a plateau. Keeping a short practice journal or joining a local Kagyu group (virtual sessions have boomed on platforms like Zoom since 2020) offers both accountability and encouragement.

Ultimately, Mahamudra isn’t a destination, but an ever-unfolding discovery of mind’s true nature. Those little stumbles along the way become stepping stones—each one teaching a fresh way to rest in openness, clarity, and effortless presence.