Overview of Anapanasati (Mindfulness of Breathing)

Last Updated on July 15, 2026 by Matthew Sockolov

Today’s talk is an introduction to Anapanasati. The Anapanasati Sutta is the Buddha’s instructions on mindfulness of the breath, and offers a systematic way to work through the Four Foundations of Mindfulness.

There is a lot to be said about this practice. Here I offer a brief overview or introduction. We cover the basics of Anapanasati, how to actually practice, a bit about my experience, and some tips to get the most out of this meditation technique.

Interested in building a regular meditation practice? Check out our free new offering, A Month of Mindfulness: Essential Meditations to Build a Daily Practice at https://www.themindfulcounselor.me/month.

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Book Source: Mindfulness of Breathing: A Practice Guide and Translations

Post on Anapansati: https://www.themindfulcounselor.me/blog/anapanasati

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Matthew Sockolov

Matthew Sockolov is a Buddhist meditation teacher who trained at Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Woodacre, California. Matthew completed the CDL5 training in 2017. He has studied at various meditation centers in various traditions, including Deer Park Monastery, Wat Metta, and Abhayagiri. He currently offers his popular meditation podcast and individual sessions with students interested in a mindfulness-based approach to counseling through his private practice at TheMindfulCounselor.me.