Life is relentless, frantic and exhausting. Perhaps you’re a stay-at-home mom, or maybe you’ve just started a new career; it doesn’t matter – whatever your circumstances may be, you almost certainly have too much on your plate.
Our culture is one of business, effort, deadlines, striving and achieving. The information age has us racing through life that would make our forefathers’ head spin – but are we happier? Many of us rarely allow ourselves to slow down and be fully present for the precious moments in our lives.
Isn’t it time to focus more on our to-don’t-do list instead of the never ending to-do list? Here’s the irony; by purposefully spending less time “doing” and more time just “being” we create a space of calmness and content where ultimately more will get done.
Meditation comes with a laundry list of significant health benefits. Research suggests that it not only lowers blood pressure and boosts the immune system, we also know that meditation is a powerful tool for stress management.
Fact is, this ancient Buddhist belief is backed up by cutting edge neuro science and even companies such as Apple and Ford are incorporating mindful meditation techniques to help their employees. Turns out that mindful meditation is a great way to increase focus, decrease stress, and stimulate creativity.
So, no time then? The good news is that even a few minutes every day can make a difference. Here’s a basic technique to get you started:
- Find a quiet and comfortable place. Sit in a chair or on the floor with you head, neck and back straight, but not stiff.
- Put aside all thoughts of the past and the future, and focus on the present.
- Become aware of your breath. Feel your belly rise and fall and the air enter your nostrils and leave your mouth. Pay attention to how each breath changes.
- Watch every thought come and go, whether it be worry, anxiety, or hope. When thoughts come up, don’t ignore or support them. Simply note them and use your breathing as an anchor. If you find yourself getting carried away, observe where your mind went off to without judgement, it happens.
- As time comes to a close sit for a minute or two, becoming aware of where you are. Get up gradually.
That’s it! That’s all you need to get started. It does not have to be a complicated process. Mindful meditation is one technique, but everyday activities provide plenty of opportunities to sneak in nuggets of meditation and reap the benefits. Wash the dishes slowly while truly feeling the warm soapy water on your skin. Walk barefoot on the grass, or really take time to smell and taste you morning cuppa. Simple as that.
It is encouraging to know that something that can be taught and practised can have an impact on our overall health.
Meditation is a simple and effective way to steady the mind, give clarity to your thoughts and help you to manage stress.
What you seek is within you. Start meditating today!
Source: www.wildmind.org, www.childmind.org, www.amazon.com, www.helpguide.com, www.womanshealthmag.com, www.huffingtonpost.com, mrsmindfulness.com, www.mindful.org, notesonbliss.com, mandalaliving.com.au, themindunleashed.com, www.drjangross.com, www.wildmind.org, www.mindfulnessmuse.com, www.dumblittleman.com, www.theindigoproject.com.au, helixhealthcaregroup.com, budhaimania.com, leightremaine.com, www.prevention.com, www.psychologytoday.com, www.fastcompany.com, tricycle.org, www.fitnessmagazine.com, ericalayne.co, wellsomannetwork.com, learnrelaxationtechniques.com
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.
