Experts agree that meditation is indeed a powerful practice that offers a diverse number of benefits. Research shows even just 10 minutes of meditation a day makes a positive difference to your well being.
Perhaps now more than ever before it is important for us to find ways to move away from a place of stress, anxiety and ‘doing’ towards simply being. Meditation has been proven to lower stress and anxiety levels. It has also been shown to:
- increase immunity;
- improve sleep;
- reduce pain;
- lower blood pressure;
- increase fertility;
- improve digestion;
- support emotional well being; and
- improve mental functioning.
So, how do we start a meditation practice? Well, the good news is, meditation is simple, it can be done anywhere and at any time of the day and can be enjoyed by any age group.
Here are some tips to support you in developing your own meditation practice.
Create a special space
Dedicate a corner of your room or a space in your home or garden that you use exclusively for meditation. Make sure it is somewhere comfortable with good air flow and gentle light. This should be a place where you can sit undisturbed and feel safe.
Schedule it in
There is always a reason not to meditate! Life happens and appointments and commitments can easily get in the way. Try and choose the same time each day that you can dedicate to your meditation practice, this will help to create new neural networks in the brain. Perhaps this means setting your alarm for ten minutes earlier than usual, or setting an alarm for a time in the day when you can take a break on your own.
Get online
Meditation is indeed an age old practice, but modern times have catered to our digital dependence. Online classes offer a little more guidance and structure that can keep you on track in a way that is familiar. Find one of our 10 minute meditation classes to start.
Get comfy
Meditation should not be about discomfort or suffering. Luckily, you’re allowed (and encouraged!) to be comfortable in meditation. Remaining seated is best so you stay awake. Although, you can use a pillow, cushion, blanket and other props to ensure you can sit comfortably with ease.
Start small
Try starting off even with five minutes at the beginning. Establishing a habit is more important than the duration. Once your initial commitment becomes habitual, then you can easily look at gently extending this time to ten or fifteen minutes as you feel ready.
And finally, be patient
The mind processes thoughts – that’s what it is there to do! So don’t be disheartened if you find it challenging to still your thoughts. The practice of meditation is to learn how to dis-attach to these thoughts. They come and they go. Like anything in life, over time as you practice, it becomes easier to train your mind to let go.
Click HERE to read our article on Making Your Meditation into a Daily Ritual.