Mention the word “meditation” and you’ll hardly find anyone who has nothing to say about it. There seems to be no shortage of information about meditation and mindfulness on social media or online these days, and for good reason. Meditation has captured the hearts of many, and it can be one of the most transformative practices you can use to change your life…for the better.
Despite a recent surge in popularity and research, meditation remains out of reach for many. While there is a desire to start meditating or to increase the frequency or length of practice, many beginners feel overwhelmed or unable to meditate regularly.
In fact, meditation is for everyone. Different styles of meditation support different types of people, schedules, and spiritual and emotional needs. There is no one “right” way to meditate, but there are some right ways to start.
What is meditation?
what is meditation
Meditation has a long history in both Indian and Asian cultures, dating back more than 5,000 years. Some of the earliest accounts of mediation are found in Hindu scriptures, with different ideas also coming from Confucianism and Buddhism in China and Japan. Other cultures and religions such as Islam, Christianity, and Judaism have also developed their own ways of meditating and praying.
As the practice of meditation continued to spread across the West in the late 20th century, its power and benefits soon began to be a topic of discussion in the medical and health community. The research aimed to track the effects of meditation on the brain, specifically our “fight or flight” or stress response.
Since then, meditation has gained credibility among doctors, scientists, psychologists, yogis, and even the general public as a beneficial form of healing for various ailments, as well as a general sense of well-being. There are many different types of meditation, including varieties such as zazen and transcendental meditation.
Meditation is a common buzzword today, and people all over the world are adopting the practice to reduce stress, improve mood, increase well-being, and even reduce pain. If you’ve been thinking about starting a meditation practice, check out these helpful tips for beginners (or focused students).
Tips for Beginner Meditation Students
Tips for Beginner Meditation Students
You’ve heard the amazing benefits of starting a meditation practice. Maybe your co-worker has started meditating and you’ve noticed that his life seems a little easier. Or, maybe your doctor or yoga teacher recommends it as a home workout.
Well, congratulations! Meditation is a powerful practice, and you’ll go a long way with this simple yet comprehensive superpower. The biggest obstacle before you is not meditation, nor is it cross-legged. The biggest challenge will be avoiding yourself! Let go of any expectations, demands or sky-high standards. This is your journey, so make the most of it:
Tip 1: Dismiss Meditation Myths
Tip 1: Get rid of meditation myths
To fully embrace the idea of meditation, you must let go of any preconceived notions you may have about meditation. This practice is not just for sane Buddhists or people with clear minds. Actually, let’s disprove this idea right away: you don’t need to have a clear and free mind to meditate. In fact, a lot of meditation is actually watching your thoughts as they arise, letting them pass through you. Second, meditation has no religion, but if you choose to bring your spiritual or religious practice into your meditation sessions, please feel empowered to do so.
Another myth: You have to sit cross-legged for hours to meditate. This may be your style, but you can meditate in a variety of poses. If sitting on the floor makes you uncomfortable, try sitting with your back against a wall, lying comfortably on the floor or on a yoga mat, or even doing a walking meditation.
To start meditating, you don’t need to spend an hour every day. You can start exercising in as little as five minutes. As you expand your practice, you’ll find that you crave more time and can easily incorporate meditation into your schedule.
Secret 2: Clear space and clear mind
Tip 2 Clear Space, Clear Mind
When you try to clear your inner world, it helps if your outer world also clears. It’s hard to find peace and tranquility when your environment is filled with clutter, work files, and chaos. You want your meditation space to be a sanctuary that inspires inner and outer peace.
To create a beautiful meditation space, choose an area of your home where you want to meditate each day. It can be the whole room or just a corner of the bedroom. Make sure the space, no matter where it is, is always clean and tidy. Don’t collect anything here. Put a nice photo or painting you like in here, or put a pillow, incense, crystals, candles, or just keep it simple and plain. Deliberately dedicating an area of your home to meditation will help encourage daily practice and keep you on track. Plus, it’s a great motivator when your space is beautiful and completely yours.
Tip 3: Find a responsible partner
Tip 3 Find an Accountable Partner
With a partner, everything is easier. Letting others know that you are embarking on a meditation journey can not only help you stay on the right path, but it can also help encourage others to meditate. Find a friend or family member and tell them you want to start meditating. Ask them to hold you accountable and motivate you to achieve your goals. It would be even better if they started a meditation practice too!
Tip 4: Use technology
Tip 4 Use technology
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