Let me start by saying that I'm not a meditation guru!
Although I've read mountains on the subject, I didn't start actively practicing meditation in a committed way until March of this year (2023)
What I've learned about meditating is .... it takes practice, and consistency is key.
I've actually progressed into learning more and more about the power of the mind ... and I'm loving every second of it!
Are You Ready to Dive into the Wonderful World of Meditation?
I know – when you hear "meditation," it might conjure images of monks perched atop misty mountaintops, but trust me, it's not all incense and pretzel-like poses.
Meditation is like a soothing balm for your mind, and today, I'll explore how it basically works its magic and why it's becoming more popular than cat videos on the internet!
Life is a non-stop rollercoaster with ups, downs, and loop-de-loops that make your head spin faster than a ball rolling down a hill! That's where meditation struts in wearing a superhero cape.
At its core, meditation is like a mini-vacation for your brain – a chance to give your mind a breather from the constant barrage of thoughts, worries, and to-do lists that make your mental landscape look like Times Square on New Year's Eve.
Now, I get it – sitting still and quieting your thoughts might sound about as easy as juggling flamingos. I can tell you I still suck at it! But I keep going and am getting much better!
Meditation isn't about turning your brain into an empty void (I haven't been close to achieving that!). It's more like a gym session for your gray matter, training it to focus, de-stress, and especially kick out the negativity that overstays its welcome.
The Basics
Start by finding a cozy corner where you won't be interrupted (a.k.a. no one bursting in asking if you've seen their left sock) and get comfy.
You don't need fancy gear or a backdrop of crashing waves – just you and your willingness to give it a shot - and a guided meditation video if you need help getting started. I've featured the one below that I love and use daily.
As you settle in, you'll discover that meditation comes in various flavors, like a buffet of mindfulness.
Here are Two Popular Choices for Meditation:
Focused Attention Meditation
Imagine your mind as a hyperactive puppy – In this meditation, you gently bring your wandering pup back to its designated spot whenever it goes on a wild adventure. Usually, that spot is your breath. Breathe in, breathe out – it's like the rhythm of life that's always there, waiting to be your anchor in those endless sea of thoughts.
Loving-Kindness Meditation
I practice this one daily. I meditate for a half an hour in the morning, and it's turning out to be the best half-hour of my day.
This one's all about dishing out warm fuzzies, not unlike sharing virtual hugs with the universe.
You start by sending good vibes to yourself (because you're awesome, duh!), and then gradually extend those vibes to friends, family, and even that grumpy neighbor who scowls like it's their day job. It's like watering the garden of your heart and watching kindness bloom.
"My personal meditation involves seeing each of my children, with their families, in their homes, happy, healthy, and financially at peace. I visualize hubby and I visting each of them. The photos in my mind about my kids and my own life have become so real to me, that now I look forward to meditating so I can visit that wonderful manifestation and play with my future grandchildren"
How Meditation Has Helped Me:
- I sucked at it at first, but with persistence, I'm now finding it to be my favorite time of the day. I look forward to it!
- It's something that is completely mine - it doesn't involve anyone else, I own it and control it
- With visualization, I get to see each of my family members where I want them to be in their lives and it feels real while meditating!
- Since it involves deeper breathing, it's a good form of exercise for my lungs
- I find I'm in a calmer state, able to release things much more effectively
- I remember to approach tough life issues with love
- I'm learning to keep my mouth shut a little better (lol)
- The future feels bright when I visualize what I see as real outcomes for my family and myself
- I feel differently inside - in a good way - I can't put that into words?
- I've learned to control my thoughts, and negative thoughts that try to creep into my head pretty much get their butts kicked to the door now! They do not control me.
My Personal Favorite Guided Meditation Video:
I use this video daily, along with a few others, from time to time. However, so far, this one ranks top for me. The meditation guide has a lovely soothing voice, and I love the way she uses a train ride to get into the life you want.
(Here's the video on YouTube if you're having problems seeing the video below.)
Some of the Basic Benefits:
Now, let's talk benefits – because who doesn't want a slice of mental and emotional awesome sauce?
Scientifically speaking, meditation has been found to reduce stress, boost focus and creativity (hello, productivity guru), and even improve your relationship with Mr. Sandman for those sweet ZZZs.
Think of meditation as a gym for your mind, minus the sweaty workout gear. With regular practice – and trust me, consistency is key here – you'll start noticing changes.
Maybe you'll handle that traffic jam without turning into the Hulk. Perhaps you'll catch yourself before a thought spiral drags you down. And just maybe, you'll find a sense of calm that feels like a warm cup of cocoa for your soul.
So, there you have it, intrepid explorers of the inner world – meditation demystified and made as approachable as a lazy Sunday morning. Remember, it's not about doing it "perfectly" but showing up and giving your mind a little love. Whether you're a zen master in training or a meditation newbie, the path to a more centered you are just a few deep breaths away.
"NOTE: A key insight I've gained about visualization is the importance of truly immersing yourself in the experience. It's not just about thinking of what you're manifesting; it's about embracing it as if it's already woven into the fabric of your reality. It's like stepping into the vibrant new world you've meticulously crafted and feeling its existence all around you"
Once my meditation session is over, I add a four-minute "prayer for others. The day is ALWAYS better when I meditate.
A Good Book and Place to Start
I'll leave you with a quote by the best-selling author Dr. Joe Dispenza, from his book "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One"
“Meditating is also a means for you to move beyond your analytical mind so that you can access your subconscious mind. That’s crucial, since the subconscious is where all your bad habits and behaviors that you want to change reside.”
I have tried meditation in the past and, while I don't practice it per se, I do the visualization part at times. Vizualization is very helpful. Thank you for sharing the basics of meditation with us and glad to hear it is making a difference in your life.
ReplyDeleteI would be the first to admit, I know nothing (except what you have written) about structured meditation. I certainly understand the need for quiet time, release of stress, and the prayers you mentioned that you end your mediation with. I can certainly see how it could be beneficial and help you start your day at peace.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like just what I need. I am going to give it a try. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteI, too, have found tremendous benefit from practicing structured meditation, Barbara. I have fallen out of the habit and appreciate your reminder of the benefits. I need to get back to it!
ReplyDeleteAs mentioned, there are a number of ways to meditate. I also wanted to add, that manifesting isn't always about manifesting things. Many years ago, I really wanted to change a certain reaction that I kept having, to be a much kinder and relaxed response. I was able to achieve by my desire after three sessions of focused visualization of the desired result.
ReplyDeletefantastic!
DeleteMeditation has been with me for some years and like you I am growing in the experience and getting better at it daily. I'm glad you found a way to start your mornings in a most positive way so that the rest of the day can flow gently. I would be lost without this special time in the day! Thanks for sharing your journey and ways to start for those who don't know where to begin.
ReplyDelete