It helps you focus, gives you better night’s sleep, increases joy and works magic on your ability to deal with life’s stresses—yes, meditation can lead to all of these wonderful results, and there is science to prove it. So why don’t we all meditate? Many people shy away from beginning a practice because it seems too daunting. They say things like: I have too many thoughts. I can’t stay still. I am too busy to find time. Are you ready to put aside the reasons (or excuses) that hold you back, and try? Here are seven easy steps to begin. —Taraneh Erfan King
step 1: get educated. There are endless books, websites and courses to learn from. Do some research, ask people for recommendations and try something out!
step 2: set reasonable goals. If you are ready for a daily practice, that’s great! If not, set a realistic goal, like: I will meditate for five minutes, three times this week. Once you achieve this, set a new goal.
step 3: use available tools. Find an app, a Youtube video, a community class or an online course that works for you. There is no one-size-fits-all.
step 4: start small. Be realistic. You may start with just two to five minutes of silence and present-moment-awareness. Then increase incrementally as you are ready.
step 5: stay accountable. Find a partner to join you. Or at least tell someone about it, and ask them to check in with you once a week to see how your practice is coming along.
step 6: recommit, and recommit again. Forming new habits can be hard and discouraging. If you are clear about your intention for starting a practice, you can choose to commit again and again to that vision.
step 7: relax. Stay non-judgemental, gentle and compassionate with your learning-self. Meditation is not about perfection, it is about practicing being in the Now.
Win! A 30 Days to Mindful Living Meditation Course!
We have a winner! Congratulations Sarah F. of Saskatoon, who won registration in the upcoming 30 Days to Mindful Living meditation course!
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