Slow Down with Meditation
Feeling unbalanced, run down, stressed out, or anxious about life in general? Meditation is a wonderful way to recharge and rejuvenate. Meditation has been shown to offer many health benefits* as well.
How do I start?
Find a time that you can stick to and you won’t be disturbed. I have found that first thing in the morning works well for me. My mind is still a bit foggy and I’m content to sit still for 15 minutes. Some people also like to meditate when they get home from work. You can sit cross-legged with a pillow under your butt or in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. I don’t recommend meditating right before bed, because meditation can be quite energizing.
What do I do?
There are lots of different ways to meditate, but one of the simplest is to simply tune into your breath. Gently breath in and out, bringing your attention to your breath. Whenever your mind wanders (which it will), bring your attention back to your breath. You can meditate for however long you like. Try starting off with 5 minutes and gradually increase it to 15-20 minutes.
Feel like your mind is too busy to meditate?
You’re not alone! This is known as your ‘monkey mind’. Your mind is busy jumping around all day long and you are just noticing it now because you are trying to stop your thoughts. As you meditate and your mind grows quieter, this calmness will begin to be a part of your entire day (and life).
Want more information about meditation?
If you are in the Boston area, check out the Cambridge Insight Meditation Center. They have regular beginner workshops, group meditation and dharma talks.
*Research shows that meditation can help ease a host of stress-related problems, including chronic pain, headaches, anxiety, PMS, sleep disorders, and even infertility.
Tags: anxiety, breath, meditation, monkey mind, stress relief