Welcome to the wonderful world of meditation! If you're reading this, chances are you're ready to take a break from the chaos of daily life and tap into your inner calm. Or maybe you're just looking for a new way to de-stress and improve your overall well-being. Either way, you're in the right place. Meditation might seem intimidating at first, but trust me – it's not as hard as you might think. In fact, it's as easy as taking a few deep breaths and finding a comfortable spot to sit (or stand, or lie down). So why wait? Let's get started on your meditation journey today. Your mind (and probably your family) will thank you.
So what is Meditation? Meditation is a mindful practice. The more you practice meditating, the more natural you will feel while meditation and the deeper states you will achieve. Also, Meditation is an art. How you create art is unique to your creative style. You can make this practice all your own and do what feels most comfortable for you. Not every meditation session will feel the same or be the same. It is a unique adventure each time and that's what makes the experience and personal growth so fun.
Here are a few quick tips to help you get started incorporating Meditation into your life.
Where are you going to Meditate?
Find a quiet, comfortable place to meditate. It should be free from distractions and noise, and comfortable enough for you to sit or lie down without discomfort. I like to dedicate a space that is a quiet, calm place. This can be your bed, your couch, a special chair, or even a yoga mat you place on the floor to meditate. The choice is yours, and the most important part is it needs to be a place where you feel most comfortable and relaxed.
When do you want to Meditate?
Choose a time when you are most likely to be able to meditate without interruptions. For many, this is first thing in the morning or before bedtime. Times of the day when your home is quiet and your kids or husband is still asleep are a great time to meditate. Some days the times will have to change, or you will have longer or shorter times to meditate, and that is ok. Be flexible and adaptable.
You don't have to sit in uncomfortable positions
Use a comfortable posture. Many people find that sitting in a chair with their feet flat on the ground and their back straight is a good position for meditation. However, you can also lie down or use any other posture that feels comfortable to you. Do what feels best for you, there is no right or wrong.
Let's begin your Meditation
Focus on your breath. One of the most common meditation techniques is focusing on your breath, paying attention to the sensation of the air moving in and out of your body. This can help to calm the mind and bring you into the present moment. You can also choose an affirmation that you want to repeat in your mind as a mantra to start, then clear your mind and observe what thoughts and images arise in your mind as a result.
Let go of distracting thoughts. It is natural for the mind to wander during meditation, and it is important to let go of any distracting thoughts that may arise. Simply acknowledge the thought and then let it go, returning your focus to your breath.
Start with a short amount of time. If you are new to meditation, start with just a few minutes and gradually increase the length of time as you become more comfortable with the practice. As with any new skill, it takes time and practice to develop proficiency in meditation.
And just like that, you're a meditation pro! Okay, maybe not quite yet – but give yourself a pat on the back for taking the first step on your meditation journey. So why should you start meditating? Because it's like hitting the reset button on your mind and body. Plus, it's a great way to give your overworked brain a much-needed break from all the endless scrolling and multitasking. Plus, with all the proven benefits of meditation, you'll be giving your stress levels, focus, and overall well-being a major boost.
Remember, the beauty of meditation is that it can be practiced anywhere and at any time, so don't be afraid to get creative and find what works best for you. Be patient with yourself and do not expect perfection immediately – meditation is a journey, not a destination and if you ever feel like you need a little extra guidance, check back for more resources to help you along the way.
Happy meditating!