I have to admit I was one of those people who used to say:“Meditation is hard, I do not think it is for me.” It was hard to stop thinking and focus as I incorrectly thought that’s what I was supposed to do. Even though I have experienced different kinds of meditations since I was a kid, and enjoyed them, it wasn’t until I had guidance from various meditation teachers that I truly felt the shift and started being consistent.
If you have similar thoughts about meditation being difficult or feel any resistance to incorporate this practice, keep reading. This article is for you.
Many people may get intimidated by the word meditation. It sounds mystical, like a secret or magical practice that you can only do if you are an enlightened monk in the Himalayas. That can’t be farther from the truth. Anyone and everyone can meditate, and there are several meditation techniques that make it even easier to adopt the one that works best for you.
In this article we’ll explore the basics of meditation and why you should consider incorporating a meditation practice into your daily life.
Put it simply, meditation is the journey from external activity to inner silence, from our busy lives to reconnecting with our true self. Often, meditation is described as a practice to help “focus your attention” but when described like that by default it makes meditation sound hard. It is not about focus, in reality it is simply guiding your mind, body and spirit to a quieter state where you can feel more peaceful, centered and a ware of the present moment.
One important thing I learned from meditation teachers is that there is no one "correct" way to meditate, as there are many different meditation techniques and approaches that can be effective. The key to successful meditation is to find a technique or approach that works for you and that you can stick with over time. Consistency is key to achieve the lasting results and true change you may be looking for.
Some common meditation techniques include centering your attention on your breath, repeating a mantra or word, visualizing a peaceful scene or image, or simply observing your thoughts without judgment. Some people find it helpful to meditate in silence, while others prefer guided meditations or music. Additionally, your practice may change over time. I remember when I first started meditating, I preferred listening to guided meditations, at other point in my life I truly preferred breath work and currently I prefer PMS(Primordial Sound Meditation) to achieve that quieter state.
Regardless of the technique you choose, it's important to approach meditation with an open and non-judgmental attitude. Don't worry about whether you're doing it "right" or "wrong" - just focus on being present in the moment and allowing your mind to settle into a state of calm and relaxation.
There are several compelling reasons why you should consider meditation as a regular practice:
Overall, regular meditation practice can have a profound impact on both your physical and mental wellbeing, and can help you lead a more fulfilling and balanced life.
All the benefits mentioned above though, are side effects of meditating. The true benefit, in my experience, is the connection with my true self and others, the realization of interconnectedness with everything around us.
The biggest benefits I have gotten from incorporating meditation in my daily life is the awareness I’ve developed. Awareness about my own thoughts and patterns, awareness about my feelings, my fears, as well as awareness as what makes me truly and genuinely happy. And by developing awareness of all of this, then I have been able to identify limiting beliefs that hinder my growth, pursue things in life that increase my energy and make impactful, lasting, changes in my life.
