It’s so easy to get stressed these days, what with all the pressures of modern life. Working long hours, dealing with children and elderly parents, looking after the home, money worries … all of these can add up to a lot of mental and physical stress. Meditation is a great way of helping to alleviate the pressure, so here are some tips on how to get the most out of sessions.
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Silence
It’s really hard to find a silent place these days, but when you want to meditate, you need as much quiet as possible. Switch the phone off, ignore any sounds you can hear, and concentrate on building a quiet place for yourself to relax in.
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Environment
If it’s impossible for you to relax and meditate at home, then take yourself off to the park, or somewhere else where there are few people (and definitely no traffic noise). This can actually be quite helpful, in that it takes you out of your normal environment and its many distractions, and allows you to focus on yourself and your meditation.
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Regularity
When you first start practising meditation, it’s not that easy. Most of us find it difficult to still our minds. Like many things, however, meditation becomes easier the more you practise it – so try to do a short session as often as possible. It really will pay off.
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Do Not Disturb!
If you have to meditate at home, and you share your home with others, then make it clear that you don’t want to be disturbed. Phone calls can be returned later, and your partner can play with the kids. Nothing short of dire emergencies must be allowed to interrupt, otherwise you won’t get any benefits from your session.
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Set the Mood
Wherever you choose to meditate, make sure that the atmosphere is right. Shut out any bright light, or choose a shady, quiet corner if you’re in the park. Candlelight really does set the scene if you’re at home. Also take time to settle down before beginning your actual meditation.
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Meaning is not what you start with but what you end up with.
Scent
Scented candles or incense sticks will also help you to drift into a state of relaxation. Allow the scent to surround you – if you are outdoors, be aware of the flowers, grass and fresh air.
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Persist
Meditation doesn’t come naturally, it needs to be worked at. So don’t give up just because you feel that you’re getting nowhere and will never be able to calm your busy brain. Keep at it. Focus on something calming and accept that this is something that needs to be viewed as long-term.
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Drifting Thoughts
Don’t be discouraged because you can’t get your brain to switch off. This is perfectly normal. All kinds of thoughts will wander through your head, from things you have to do, to random subjects. Allow them to just be there, but don’t focus on them. Let them drift by.
Are you into meditation, and what benefits have you derived from it, or do you find it too difficult?
Top Photo Credit: Svenmarck
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