How to Meditate Anywhere. Even In Traffic

If you’re waiting for the perfect time, it’ll never come around. Here, Jay Michaelson, mindfulness teacher on the app Ten Percent Happier, explains how to turn stressful situations into a moment of zen

RETURNING to in-person work may feel exciting, overwhelming, annoying. Personally, any time I’m feeling sensory overload, I do this very simple meditation. There’s no need to sit cross-legged, close your eyes, none of that. Just be right where you are, eyes open, and feel your chest rise and fall with one single breath.

Realise that both of these things are happening: the craziness and the simple feeling of being in this body, breathing. You’re here; it’s now. Stuff is buzzing around and the mind is awake and aware.

There can be a moment of stillness even in the middle of a lot of movement. And you can do this 100 times a day if you want. Small moments, many times – that’s the way to sanity.