Meditation is a practice that many view as a “waste of time” or something that they are unable to do because of a “lack of focus”. I myself used to think the exact same way. I am someone who has a hard time staying focused during the day, loses track of things easily, and runs around doing things until I drop. But, it wasn’t until someone recommended a meditation class to me that I realized that I didn’t have to feel constantly overwhelmed, all over the place, and worried about what was going to happen next. It was the day before a big exam, and with a million different things going on in my week, I didn’t realize how much I needed to clear my mind and just be.
When you sit in on a meditation class, it may be a little uncomfortable, or you might be a little nervous. I went in having no idea what was going to happen. But, over the course of an hour, I cleared my mind more than I ever have been able to and left refreshed and ready to continue on with the rest of my day.
Strictly focusing on your breath can have a bigger impact on your physical awareness than you may think. Just being there in the moment, taking in the sounds from the outside world while accepting new thoughts and letting them go, there was something so peaceful. It’s that moment where you feel safe, at home in your own being, and clear of any doubts or concerns that may have been there before.
My favorite thing that I took with me was these different breathing techniques:
- Deep Breathing in and out
- Deep breathing in, holding at the top, then exhaling slowly
- Deep breathing in, holding at the top, then exhaling slowly, then holding at the end of your exhale.
It may sound boring, or a little too simple for you, but that simple practice before bed every night, focusing on your breath, the quality of the air, releasing tension in each part of your body, can send you into a mindful state of peace. Whether you have to continue on with the rest of your day, or simply do it before you go to sleep, it is so beneficial and something I now implement into my daily routine.
The best part about meditation is that you don’t need anything else but yourself. No equipment, instructor, instruments, anything. Just being with yourself and focusing on yourself and where your energy in the room lies is enough.
Trust me, take it from someone who would do anything but focus on her own being, it is something worth a try! For years I struggled with finding the right balance of taking care of myself and doing too much and going until I drop. But with even a quick 10-minute meditation, you can do something for YOU.
Not only has it helped me with focus, sleep, and stress, but has also made a huge impact on how much time I set aside every day for myself. When your mind, body, and spirit are all connected, you are able to listen and understand the needs and wants of your body, and if it allows, answer those requests.
With this in mind, the next time you feel overwhelmed, are having trouble sleeping, or maybe if you have a little extra time on your hands, try meditation. There isn’t just one way to do it. There are so many different ways to Meditate, but the most important is dialing in on your breath and being present in the moment.
