I have tried, unsuccessfully, to meditate. I love it when it's happening, but I find it difficult to make this important practice a real part of my everyday life. A wonderful networking and support group I recently joined, uses a guided meditation to begin each meeting. It got me thinking about trying to incorporate this into my routine again.
So here are 5 Tips to Help You Get Started With Meditation:
Find a Spot - At our group, we sit where we are or search a comfortable spot in the room to settle in. At home, if I'm doing it in the morning, I like to roll out my yoga mat in the living room, in front of a window. I am considering trying it out on my front porch. Try out some different spots until you find something that grounds you.
Set the Mood - Dim the lights, light a candle, turn on your diffuser. Personally, I like to diffuse some Frankincense or Joy to set my mood. Both oils can promote feelings of inner peace and happiness. You can try Geranium or Rosemary. Another oiler I know swears by White Angelica or Palo Santo. Or maybe some Oola Faith. For some additional ideas, check out this post over at Eat.Sleep.Be.
Relax - This can be a real challenge, and where a guided meditation can help. Shutting down our minds can be almost impossible. What I am finding is that it's okay to get a thought in your head, but during your meditation practice, you have to swish it away and return your focus. Concentrated breathing can also help you to relax and "let go."
Make the Time - Are you an early riser? Then maybe a morning meditation before everyone else gets up is good for you. Night owl, perhaps before bed would be a good fit. I am thinking that late evening may be a good time for me. . .when I want the kids to wind down too. Play around with time until you find something that works.
Repeat - Here's the rub right? It's great to do it once or twice and feel wonderful, but making it a habit, and doing it repeatedly is where I get stuck. It's important to remember that meditation can be an evolving practice. Something you will get better at over time. So keep trying and don't give up!
Remember it can take 21 Days to form a habit. . .so give yourself time and permission to try this new sense of being on. I'd love to hear your tips and favorites for successful meditation!
catch you soon -
I've done a little mediation myself but now I want to try it with the kids at night...wish me luck!
ReplyDeleteI have tried and found I can't do it at home because Finnegan sits on me, licks me and barks at me
ReplyDeleteI'm totally motivated to give it a try, thanks for the inspiration! I've recently started doing a little yoga so seems like a natural next step to take. I could definitely use a little more relaxation in my life :)
ReplyDeleteI'm constantly trying to get into more regular meditation. I'm lucky if I can get 5 minutes prior to yoga class a few times a week. The app - headspace, I think? - comes really recommended. Great tips!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips! I've been meditating on and off for years. It's really important to find a space to call your own.
ReplyDeleteMy dad taught me how to meditate when I was younger and loved doing it. It's been years since I have done it though. I really need to get back into doing it again. Great post.
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