The benefits of meditation are everywhere. From celebrities to the average joe, everyone also seems to be doing it. Should you?
While taking care of your body is almost a no-brainer, you should also consider looking after your mind. The two are connected and when one isn’t doing well, the other inevitably suffers. This is where meditation comes in.
Meditation is a technique that trains the mind. It also helps clear the mind of clutter that could contribute to increasing anxiety and stress. And the benefits are absolutely worth it.
Meditation helps:
Decrease stress
Reduce anxiety
Improve emotional health and well-being
Increase your self-awareness
Increase focus and concentration
Improve memory
Improve sleep
Improve your physical health, including high blood pressure.
How Can You Start Meditating?
The hardest part about meditation is getting started and consistently doing it. The benefits that come from meditation accumulate over time. This means that you have to keep doing it to reap the benefits involved.
So, how can you get into it?
There are many phone applications that offer guided meditation, such as Headspace and Insight Timer. Start with only a few minutes a day. Gradually build by adding a minute or two each week. You’ll find that with practice, it does get easier.
And if you don’t want to use your phone… set a timer. Start with 2-5 minutes. Close your eyes. Inhale, then exhale. On each exhale, count. Start with 1 and work your way up to 10. If you find you lose track, simply start back at 1 again. Once you reach 10, work your way back down to 1.
If thoughts enter your mind, let them. Then let them go. Keep coming back to your breath.
If this still doesn’t work well for you (and remember, you need to give it time - meaning more than a couple of sessions), try mindful or meditative movement. Yoga is great for this. Many cities also have meditation and yoga type classes at local yoga studios. Check the schedule. Aim to go once or twice a week.
There are also all different types of meditation. Other varieties involve mantras or chanting. You can also meditate with your eyes open in some. It really comes down to what works for you and your life.
Meditate for Improved Mental Clarity and a Better Life
The mind-body connection is clear. If you aren’t already incorporating mental health strategies in your life, try meditation. It might be exactly what you’re missing. Start slow. Meditation isn’t about being perfect. It’s simply about allowing time for your mind to reset and refresh.