Meditation helps us to relax our minds and bring clarity and focus to what we want. It quiets that internal chatter that is always going on. It is also a tool that helps us enter a deeper state of relaxation AND we are also a lot more creative after a period of stillness. Meditation also increases serotonin production, which influences mood and behaviour. Regina Drueding, MD, is a meditation instructor at Life Circles in Utah, USA. She quotes the benefits of meditation as follows: “more energy, improved quality of sleep, decreased anxiety, lessened chronological aging, improved concentration, improved visual acuity, increased alertness and heightened immunity.” It’s pretty obvious how incorporating meditation into your daily routine can positively impact ALL areas of your life.
There are a few different ways to meditate. For all of them you should be sitting or laying down in a comfortable, quiet place. There are guided meditations that you can purchase on CD or tape, and you can find them on-line or at your local bookstore. Pay attention to how long they are and make sure they fit with how much time you want to spend meditating.
Another way is to simply focus on your breathing. You can either take deep breaths in and out, or count to the same number each time (four works well). For example, while breathing in, count to four, and then while breathing out count to four. Once you get used to it you won’t have to count anymore. Keep in mind your thoughts will drift, and that is normal. When you realize your mind has wandered, simply focus on your breathing again.
Some people like to meditate outdoors by going for a walk in nature or a jog. There’s something powerful about being outside and around nature.
There is no right or wrong way to meditate. Try a couple of techniques and see which feels right for you. It helps to set a weekly goal to ensure you will actually do it. Start of small like 2-3 times a week for 10 mins, or once a week for 30 mins. Choose the amount of time that best suits you and your schedule. It also helps to do it the same time each day so that it does become a part of your schedule. Will first thing in the morning, a break during your work day or the evening work best for you? You’ll be hooked in no time 🙂
Meditation help us to reduce stress, generate confidence & become more creative!
Namaste 🙂