World Meditation Day

This Sunday is World Meditation Day, a call to clear our minds in peace. Although meditation has gained popularity as an activity, it may still bring mental images of yoga retreats and Tibetian monks, an unattainable and foreign lifestyle. In reality, anyone can meditate from anywhere without special equipment. 

Meditation can look like a kinder way of speaking to ourselves, a moment of quiet before going to sleep or a deep breath in between meetings. It can take the form of affirmations, journaling, “clearing the mind”, embracing stoic gratitude. It can also have a big role in health, weather yours is affected personally or a family member. Coping with stress by refocusing your attention on something calming can be an essential tool in staying calm. Most importantly, meditation can help us get to know ourselves better. To approach mediation with a relaxed mindset:

1. Sit still for 2 minutes, first thing in the morning. By the time you get home from work, most of the day’s stressful events have already passed. 
2. Feel your emotions. Assess your mental state by naming your emotions.
3. Count your breaths. From 1-10 and start again. 
4. Let your mind wander. By letting them roam without getting discouraged, thoughts can eventually clear. 
5. Do not focus on feeling like you are doing it “wrong”. It is a process, and there is no objective right way.
6. Notice the small details. The light, sounds, smells. 
7. Follow guided meditations online. Practicing from home can be just as rewarding as traveling to join a retreat. 
8. Commit to meditation. In order to work long term, meditation is like any other hobby and takes practice. Commit to a few minutes each morning. 
9. Meditate with a friend or relative. Sharing the experience can bond you further. 
10. Smile after the meditation session is finished. Each one is different from the one before. 

Happy meditating!