You hear the word ‘meditation’ and immediately think of a load of women in racer back vests and grey leggings, barefoot, at sunset up Ally Pally. Are we right? Sure, that happens, but meditation is actually pretty incredible once you master it. Even your first couple of goes can leave you feeling refreshed. Meditation is great for tackling depression, insomnia, anxiety, high blood pressure and can improve your ability to focus and be productive.
Meditation isn’t about chanting to a ‘Sun God’ or anything like that (although if that’s how you want to approach it then crack on) but instead it’s more about becoming mindful of yourself and your life. What we mean by that is, allowing yourself to see what is going on in your life, whether it may be good or bad, and letting it naturally flow without worrying about it or judging it, or trying to influence the outcome. That’s not to say that if you’re about to be evicted you should sit cross legged and wait for the bailiffs to come, it’s about accepting that what will be will be. Obviously of serious matters, yes, you should bounce into action, but for things such as a mum in the playground being two faced or your supermarket delivery being late then really you can let that go. You can just let it wash over you and run off your back, almost as if you’re waterproof.
The best way to start is to pick a time of day where you won’t be disturbed by the postman or the children for example. Sit cross legged on the floor, making sure your phone is switched off and preferable in another room. Try not to pay attention to your clothes; leave your pants digging into you if they are doing. Trust us. Close your eyes and rest your hands on your knees. Try to picture each part of your body and as you do, try to relax each part. Breathe deeply and as you exhale, imagine all the worry you have leaving your body. You’ll soon feel your body start to relax and not be so tense. Don’t worry if you can’t feel anything happening, it does take some practice. Try five minutes at first then build up as you go along. It will start to feel amazing the more you practise it.