EASY STEPS TO MEDITATION
Today’s world can be very fast and busy, however, many people don’t take the opportunity to slow down and let their mind catch up — essentially, let themselves have a little rest.
According to Headspace, “meditation isn’t about becoming a different person, a new person or even a better person. It’s about training in awareness and getting a healthy perspective. You’re not trying to turn off your thoughts or feelings. You’re learning to observe without judgment.”
Meditation can be difficult, particularly if you haven’t done it before — when you’re just starting out it’s great to try guided meditations, which are easily accessible on a lot of apps including Headspace.
Remember that the mind can be an odd and confusing place sometimes, so you’re doing a great job just having a go.
MEDITATING IN FIVE EASY STEPS 1. Find your space
Try and find a spot that is private and you feel totally comfortable. Remove any clutter. A bedroom is a good suggestion.
2. Sit comfortably
There are a lot of different ways to sit when you meditate, but two of the most common ways include sitting cross-legged on the floor and sitting on a chair. It is not recommended that you lie down, as this will induce sleep, and the point of meditating is to occupy a state of awareness.
3. Clear your mind
Loosen your body, stretch, and take a few deep breaths. Close your eyes.
4. Sit and observe
Notice the thoughts that come into your mind. Don’t engage with them, just observe them.
You’ll find that when you’re meditating, things will probably come into your mind such as, “I need to go to the shops tomorrow”, or “I need to reply to that email” — tasks to keep you occupied. However, you are a passive observer in meditation and it is your job to not engage with your thoughts, and to simply observe them. If you become distracted by these thoughts, imagine popping them like a balloon.
5. Finish your meditation
Slowly open your eyes again and become aware with your physical surroundings again. If you’d like to, sit quietly in your meditative space and get up when you feel ready to resume physical activities again.