So it feels like my brain is relaxing, even though I’m hardly noticing my thoughts.
Is this common?

And, i’ll often feel “something” that I can’t put a word to, ie a thought or emotion. It takes a bit of time sitting with it.

As one progresses, do thoughts “show them selves more readily”? Are emotions named more easily?

I don’t need it to be different. I’m curious though what your experience has been with students.