AYURVEDA

Meditation is widely talked about, but for beginners, it’s challenging to know exactly what to do or how to get started. How can we relax when we’ve got so much on our mind? Where do we even find the time to meditate anyway?

Although there are many different opinions on how to meditate and mediation styles, most experts will agree that it is easiest to start in small steps. For example, some people start with just 5 minutes a day – or others will begin meditating once a week.

The key is to make your practice into a habit, where you don’t have to really think about it or feel like you’re making an effort to do it. Some people meditate first thing in the morning, and winding down at the end of the day or right before bed can work as well.

If you are one of those people that thinks you do not have the time to add a meditation practice to your schedule (like I was), consider this: many business professionals use meditation to help them gain time.

For instance, a corporate executive meditates for 30 minutes each morning. By doing this, he becomes more focused and productive, therefore completing 8 hours of work in 6 hours. He has just added 1.5 hours to his busy day simply by adding meditation.

The best way to find out if meditation really works is to try it for yourself. Here are 5 simple tips for people just getting started with this relaxation and focus-building technique:

1. Find a Relaxing Location to Meditate.

Whether you have an extra room in your home or simply close the door in your office to free you from interruptions, select a place where you can practice regularly.

Dim lighting, soothing scents or background music can also be helpful to get you in the mood, especially if you use the space for other activities during the day. Meditating outdoors can also be a great alternative if you have a relaxing backyard or comfortable chaise lounger ().

2. Choose a Good Position.

Lotus and half-lotus positions are what the majority of the professionals choose while meditating. Some people sit on a cushion, others lay on the floor and others sit while leaning up against a wall. It is important to be comfortable and relaxed but not slumped over. This will help you concentrate without build a new habit of bad posture…

3. Try to Clear Your Mind.

Rather than clear your mind and not think about anything (which can be quite challenging), simply clear your concerns and thought about problems or issues in your life. Focus on the here and now; the temperature in the room, the sounds you are hearing, fragrances that surround you, how your body physically feels, etc… This process can be mind-calming all on its own. In fact, taking small breaks during a business to do this for a few minutes can be surprisingly relaxing.

4. Be Consistent.

This may be easier said than done, but it is a very important factor to developing a successful practice. This is why many people choose to “start small”. For example, start a 2-minute daily routine and then increase it over time until you can easily meditate for 10 minutes or more. Be patient and stick with it. The longer you persist, the easier it will become.

5. Don’t be Afraid to Use Meditation Tools.

There are plenty of audio guided meditations that you can buy and follow along with. You can even find basic videos on YouTube for free. For some people who have never meditated before, these aids can be very helpful – and sometimes make the difference in whether you succeed or not.