The word meditation has a serious ring to it, don’t you think? Maybe it reminds you of a Buddhist monk totally at peace with himself and others; or maybe a good looking man or woman, with perfect body and posture, smiling, looking content. Does that quiet serene state of mind feel way out of your reach?
Many of us are finding our lives are becoming ever more complicated, filled with so much of the hustle and bustle of everyday life, that we are craving an experience of peace. At this time of the year many of us tend to focus on all the different things that we didn’t accomplish this year. We create lists and make pacts that we will do better, be better, and live fuller lives! (Next year!) This disconnect occurs when we spend little or no time basking in either our accomplishments or enjoying the fruits of all that we did well during the year.
When last did you go “oh” or “ah” at something you’ve seen many times before? Does the way your barista prepare your cappuccino everyday still amaze you … so much skill, so much love! Have you lost your ability to take a fresh look?
Forget about everything you think you know about meditation. Forget about sitting cross legged in a silent room trying to rise above everything you’re trying to get rid of. Meditation is about being aware of what is happening right now, it doesn’t require a certain state of mind or a silent room.
Meditation is part of us already. We can all be experts. Whenever you listen, really listen, you are meditating. So, just try it! Don’t wait for an undisturbed, quiet moment. Just feel the incredible aliveness right in front of you. It can manifest as a sound, a feeling, a sensation or a thought. Meet life as it presents itself to you. Be intimate with life. Invite your playfulness and curiosity to jump right in, it’s all here and waiting for you to be discovered.
We need to remind ourselves that we can change the way we look at ourselves and our thoughts. By making small changes on a sensory level, we can change our lives. Finding your zone is a much sought- after state of being. Here’s how to do just that:
• Meditate. Only 10 minutes each day can have an enormous impact on all areas of your life. Sit back, close your eyes and find your inner peace.
• Love. First and foremost love yourself and then others around you.
• Laughter. This is the purist form of joy. Find people who make you laugh, don’t take life too seriously.
• Spend time in nature. We spend so much time confined in buildings made of bricks and steel; if you feel overwhelmed, take a stroll outside. Immerse yourself; be mindful of the wind in the trees and the smell of the grass.
• Gratitude and positivity. Reframe negative thoughts into positive incarnations, constantly reminding yourself of everything in your life that you are grateful for.
• Accept what is. What we cannot change or influence, should not be a concern.
• Letting go. Don’t hold grudges, let small infractions roll off your back.
• Keep learning. Find joy in growing as a person. Read books, engage in conversation, give yourself space to explore your creative side.
• Challenge. Get outside your comfort zone. Undertake projects that make you feel alive.
• Commitment. Commit to live authentically, commit to people and projects that carry significant meaning.
Meditation is a tool to re-align ourselves with our healthful centres. There is an overwhelming amount of research showing how meditation changes the circuits in the part of the brain associated with contentment and happiness. Live a life filled with “aha” moments.
Source: andrealeber.com, www.ekhartyoga.com, www.yogawithyasmin.com, www.yogazone.org.uk, www.gaiamtv.com, www.businessblogshub.com, www.indeedmotivation.com, www.lifeaftercollege.org
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.
