I wonder if there was one thing you could do to improve your memory, brain function, immunity, overall health, and happiness, would you do it?
What if it were free and only took 5 minutes? Sounds too good to be true, right???
Well it isn’t. Meditation is scientifically proven to have all of these benefits and more. So, with all of these amazing benefits with so little commitment, why aren’t we all doing it?
Before I started practicing meditation, I was convinced it was something I couldn’t do. My mind constantly went in a million different directions. If I sat still for more than five minutes, I was either uncomfortable or asleep. It was something I wanted to do, but I just didn’t think I could do. And this is something I have heard time and time again from new clients. So, here is a very simple easy way to get started:
1. Get Comfortable: Begin by sitting with your back straight, either in a chair or on the floor. You want to be comfortable, but not so comfortable that you fall asleep. There is no ‘right way’ to hold your hands or tuck your legs. Just do what feels right for you.
2. Look Up: When you are comfortable, you can close your eyes and internally look up at that spot on your forehead just between your eyebrows. If it feels more natural for you to leave your eyes open and focus on an object, that’s fine too. Like I said –do what feels right for you.
3. Breathe: Begin to focus in on your breath. Notice how you can allow yourself to breathe deeply, naturally and easily. While you are doing this, thoughts may come up and that is perfectly natural and okay. When this happens, just gently return your focus to your breath.
It really is that simple.
Doing this for 5 minutes a day is all you need to get started. Many people will experience different sensations or even emotions at some point while meditating. This can take some practice, but the best way to deal with emotions is not by reacting, but by paying attention to where the feeling is in your body and breathing through it. This technique works really well if you are antsy and are having a hard time settling in. And, if you are having a hard time settling in because you are truly uncomfortable, then try other positions.
Do you have any tips you can share for helping someone get started with meditation? I would love to hear them!