As I sit here recalling my first dance with meditation, it was no easy task. Quieting the mind. The impossible task, right? Our ego is so used to running the show, we don’t become aware of how dominating it is until we actually try to calm and quiet our minds. Make no mistake, chances are the first few times you try to meditate will seem virtually impossible, frustrating, and even painful. No worries though, this is perfectly natural.
Below you will find some of my personal advice if you’re curious about giving meditation a try… Come on in, the water’s nice!
START SMALL AND EASE INTO IT
* Try to meditate for only 4-5 minutes at first.
* Add one minute every 1-2 days until you can meditate at least 15-20 minutes.
* The more you practice, the easier and more enjoyable it becomes. Give it a little time and persist.
DON’T “DO” ANYTHING
* Meditation isn’t something you actually do or accomplish, it’s the state of non-doing (our natural state).
* Don’t try to get it right, or have any expectations. What happens during your session – sleep, mind wandering, insight, deep relaxation, etc. – is exactly what was supposed to happen. Just allow and let go.
* When thoughts enter your mind, be mindful of them and acknowledge they’re there. Then, gently return your awareness to your breath or mantra.
IT’S ALL ABOUT ROUTINE
* Build it into your schedule so that it’s automatic (like brushing your teeth, showering, etc.).
* Think of it as daily physical, mental, and spiritual nourishment—make it a MUST!
My challenge to you is the same one Dr. Mann (UofM Professor) gave me:
1. Experiment with a few different kinds of meditation (TM, mindfulness, guided, music, etc.)
2. Choose one or more practices that you would like to explore further.
3. Journal your experiences over a period of two weeks (3-4 sentences).
4. Craft your own customized meditation practice.
Enjoy the gift of meditating. Namaste.
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