Distract yourself if you need to
but practice observing at the same time
If you need to – DISTRACT yourself – it is OKAY to do this – this is NOT an endurance test.
But AS you distract yourself do so as calmly as you can.
Acknowledge that the thoughts are there. Practice as you distract yourself – Breathe – let go – keep relaxing TOWARDS the thoughts and feelings.
Instead of running about frantically trying to ‘escape’ from it all remind yourself that you can distract yourself AND practice at the same time – WHY NOT?