Cattāri Brahmavihārā

Yesterday, I spent my formal practice on an hour long guided metta practice. The technique was based on the Mahasi-style but I was unable to get the feeling going. I have always had a hard time with techniques that ask you to repeat phrases until the nimitta arises but I have to admit that this is more likely a problem with my own lack of patience rather than the method. I often feel as though I should give this type of practice more of a try but cabby escape the feeling that I spend more time chasing thoughts and daydreaming with these kinds of techniques. 

This morning I decided to forego a guided mediation and use the technique I’ve learned from Ajahn Achalo. I clearly sry my intention, noticed the restlessness and the strong desire to feel suffering and then proceeded to see myself sitting in my mind’s eye. Next I began to coordinate two phrases with the breath. “May I be well” on the in breath, “May I be happy” on the out. In a short time I geeky the warmth I’m my chest and, wasone out  stable, I began spreading outward in rings, returning to a smaller circle when it began losing strength. 

Clearly, one style is easier for me but does that mean I should follow it? I have asked this question before and it may be that I’m waiting for confirmation of my bias but it continues to confound me.