As the new year arises many of us turn to resolutions and promise to lose weight, exercise and eat better. This year my goal is to learn to have more time for meditation.
Meditation is a great way to reduce stress, develop patience, compassion, love, generosity, forgiveness and even an inner sense of peace.
Individuals that incorporate the practice meditation may notice a clearer mind and find an ease of many health issues, such as high blood pressure, anxiety or depression.
To help those of you that might be interested in adding meditation into your daily lives, here are some basic and simple tips:
How do you mediate?
- You can listen to guided meditations.
- You can set your intention for relaxation an unwinding of a belief or clearing of the mind.
- What ever you want to focus on use that as your starting point.
- You can practice movement such as walking or yoga.
- Find a position of relaxation whether sitting or lying down if not interested in moving.
- With any meditation I like to calm myself with deep long breathes and relaxing each of my body parts starting with my toes working my way to the crown if my head.
- And then just allow myself to be.
- You may find focusing on something that brings you peace or joy helps as well.
How long to meditate?
Usually 15-30 minutes is a good meditation. However, if you have 5-10 minutes a short mediation can make a huge difference in your day.
When to meditate?
Meditation times really depend on you as an individual.
Do you have trouble falling asleep? Then meditate in bed at night laying down.
Stressed at work?
Take 5-10 minutes to gentle give yourself space to breathe and relax your body. Your day will dramatically change.
Need energy for the day?
Start with a movement meditation that incorporates yoga or walking. Better than a cup of coffee any day.
How often to meditate?
Meditating twice a day is ideal. However, if you only have time once a day, that is still going to make a difference:)