With all the unrest in the world currently, most of us are carrying mental baggage. How often are we carrying the events of the day, week, or month with us by worrying or constantly thinking?
Meditation is a practice to calm the mind and believe it or not, anyone can do it. Ok, I know what you are thinking… “My mind doesn’t stop long enough for meditation.” This is completely normal. Initially, you may only be able to calm the mind for a minute or two. But, with practice, the mind calms for longer periods of time.
Meditation has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, promotes emotional and physical health, enhances our awareness to ourselves, and improves sleep.
I know what you are wondering, “How do I meditate?”. Below are simple and easy to follow instructions.
- Choose an area that is quiet, and you will not be disturbed for a few minutes.
- Set a timer for the length of time you’d like to set aside.
- Sit or lay in a comfortable position, where you can allow your body to completely rest.
- Take a few deep breaths in, filling your lungs completely. When you exhale, set your intention to release any stress and tension, as if you are pushing it off you.
- Breathe normally now and begin to notice the feeling of your breath. Feel the coolness of the inhale and warmth of the exhale. Feel how your body rises and falls with each breath.
- If your mind starts to wander, simply recognize it, and notice the feeling of your breath again.
- When you are ready, bring gentle movement in your body and open your eyes.
I hope you enjoyed this exercise and will continue your mind calming journey!
Written by Jennifer Guillot
Owner, Heal from Within, LLC
Jennifer Guillot is a Meditation Guide, Holistic Energy Healer, and Well-being facilitator. She is the owner of Heal from Within, LLC and works at Ochsner West Bank facilitating their staff well-being program. Her passion is working with others on their own healing journey.
