How to Get Started on Meditation

Peaceful senior woman in lotus position meditation with closed eyes at home while sitting on yoga mat on floor, full length. Calm elderly lady practicing meditation techniques and yoga indoors

Meditation is a practice that helps you focus and connect with your inner thoughts and feelings. It can be used to improve your mental and emotional health, as well as your physical health.

Beginning a meditation practice can be intimidating. Here are a few tips to get you started!

There are many different ways to meditate. Some people prefer to sit in silence, while others prefer to listen to music or use a guided meditation. The most important thing is to find a method that works for you and that you can commit to.

Once you’ve found a method that you like, the next step is to create a habit. Like any other habit, it will take time to form, but eventually, it will become second nature.

To make sure you are consistent with your practice, try setting aside a specific time each day for meditation. This could be first thing in the morning or right before bedtime. You could also choose a specific place where you’ll always meditate – like your bedroom or living room.

If you have trouble sticking with your routine, there are other things that you can use as reminders to remain on track. Setting a reminder on your phone or marking it in your calendar can be helpful ways to stay on track. You may also want to find a meditation buddy, someone who will commit to meditating with you at the same time each day. This can help you stay motivated and accountable. Additionally, selecting a specific place to meditate can create an environment that is conducive to stillness and peace. Pick a place where you will not be disturbed. Get into a comfortable position, sit up straight with both feet on the floor. Close your eyes and begin to focus on your breath. Inhale and exhale slowly, count each inhale and exhale to help keep your mind focused. If other thoughts come into your mind, simply acknowledge them and then refocus on your breath. When you’re finished meditating, slowly open your eyes and spend a few moments stretching before standing up.

This may be intimidating, but start small to make sure you can keep up with your practice. Don’t jump in right away and try to meditate for an hour; that will only result in frustration and the unlikelihood to do it again.

How OFTEN you meditate is up to you, but remember to take it one bit at a time; that is what will lead to success.