Whether in my appointments with people or in my daily life I’m hearing people gasp at the mention of meditation. Their facial expression alone says it all. Though meditation has become mainstream people feel the pressure to get it right. However in the quest of quieting our minds we create the opposite effect. We live in a world of noise and chaos where we seemingly operate at that level for most of our day.
How many people get home from work and without thinking about it turn on the television adding to the noise and distraction of our lives? It’s no wonder we take sleep aids, sleepy time teas, melatonin, alcohol or whatever is available to induce relaxation.
There must be a misunderstanding…. because the current vernacular of meditation is that meditation is a soulful and relaxing practice aligned with a level of spiritual practice meant only for those who ‘do it right’. Yet truly, the goal is to quiet the brain and relax the body so that we become available to listen to our inner self. It is as simple as that.
So! we are inundated with videos, classes and instruction on how to meditate. Let me say, ritual is extremely helpful when starting any type of practice. However give yourself the freedom to use ritual as a starting point. Read and explore different methods as part of your research into meditation, and then find your own way, or continue with the ritual that aligns with you. It may take a few attempts to find the right fit, but ultimately it is personal to you and it is your natural right to practice in your own time and in your own way. In other words, give yourself permission and decide to get quiet.
Without a doubt it takes practice to find your own rhythm. Once you do it is worth every moment you dedicate to it. Decide to give yourself this gift of self-nurturing. Begin with as little as 5 minutes a day. Sit with your eyes closed to reduce visual stimuli and observe your thoughts as you observe your breath. Without judgement or anxiety, relax with the idea you will have thoughts pass by and know as you practice stillness and listening, you will reduce the number of thoughts and be able to just let them go. Over time you will find your preferences utilizing tools such as focusing on your inhalation and exhalation; using short guided meditations, relaxation music etc. Just know, it is by being in silence that you listen. It is by being quiet you feel the true pulse of your own heart.
Embrace Your Joyful Self
With Love
Elaine