a beginners guide to Meditation | bac massage therapy

A beginners guide to meditation

Meditation, although currently gaining popularity in the western world, is not a new trend. It has been present in all religions, across the globe, throughout history.

In fact, the first written evidence is actually from 1500BC.

Meditation is a way to step out of a busy, chaotic life and find a moment of peace and tranquility.

It could be as simple as a couple of conscious breaths or a prayer, or more in-depth like a vision quest or seeking your higher self. Regardless, these are all forms of meditation.

To see the most benefits from meditation, try to build your practice up to 5 days out of 7 (ultimately aiming for 7 days out of 7); starting with 4-5 minutes each time and building towards 20 minutes as you become more comfortable and confident in your practice.

And it is a practice, you will have some days where it comes easily and some where it definitely does not, but the more comfortable your become, the easier you will find it to settle in and experience the benefits.

Is there a perfect time of day to practice? No, its completely individual, what works for me might not work for you and vice versa. Any time of day can work, although be careful if you choose the evening when you are tired because the goal isn’t to actually fall asleep during your practice. If you can make time, the start of your day is a great place to start as it sets up a wonderful start to your day.

When first establishing a meditation practice, make sure to put some energy in to setting the scene. The room should be quiet and warm; choose the most comfortable way to sit or lay (there is nothing worse than a sore back pulling you out of your meditation); turn down the lights; put on some soft music; light a candle or diffuse some essential oils.

Setting your meditation scene, the same way every time can become part of the ritual and help you settle into meditation more easily.

Choose a style of meditation that feels right for you. Explore 5 different types of meditation practice here. These are all ones that I have tried in my own practice over the years and really enjoy (although I tend to gravitate towards 2 of them for my regular practice).

The most important step is to quietly observe how you feel at the end of each practice.

Did you find it simple to do? Do you feel calmer and at peace? Did it feel forced at all? Where you uncomfortable? Do you feel amazing?

​Use your responses and other thoughts to guide your future practice. It’s all about feedback not failure. If it felt off at all, you may consider changing up one of the variables – time of day, type of meditation, physical position, location, etc.

Right now, is the start … When you say I am worth it and choose to make time for meditation to happen.

Be gentle with yourself, no one starts out as an expert.

If you find your mind wandering bring your focus back to your breathing … Relax & bask in the serenity.
​
Namaste.