Let me start by saying that I'm not the best "meditator"- I'm not even like, the second best. To be honest, I actually may be the worst at meditating. But it has just done me so good that I can't stop. It's changed my life and those times that I do get in the meditative state, boy oh boy, do I feeeeeel it. 'Nomsayin?
It feels like meditation is the latest craze these days and usually, I'm not one to back up a fad but I will this one because it's changed my life. Just by adding 5 minutes of meditation in the morning and using Yoga Nidra (a different kind of meditation to help you fall asleep) at night, my life has drastically improved. And I know, if it sounds too good to be true, it's probably not but I promise, its a game changer. I will be fully transparent though, there are days that sitting in silence doesn't do a thing for me and no amount of meditation will fix it but it does make things easier in the long run.
Here are a few benefits to sitting in silence:
1. Reduces anxiety
2. Relaxes the nervous system
3. Diminishes intensity of migraines and headaches
4. Lowers blood pressure and slows down cardiovascular system
5. Quiets the mind from self-doubt and internal chatter
So how do you begin to meditate? Well, I thought you'd never ask. To be completely honest (again), I can't quite sit in silence just yet. Shocker! But- I figured if I share what has helped me, odds are it can help you as well! Since I can't just shut off my brain, I use this one thing and let me tell you, it works!
Ok, you ready? Here it is: I cheat and use an app! GASP! Seriously though, I love to use the Insight Timer app (avaiable on the App Store) and pick a quick 5-8 minute morning meditation. I sit (or lay) in a comfortable position and start out with a guided meditation. I've noticed that when I listen to the guided meditation and complete it, I am then able to sit in silence a little while after the guided meditation has ended and sit with myself in complete silence. Whodathunk?!
If you've tried to meditate with no success, try out the Insight Timer app- it may or may not work for you but you'll never know if you don't give it a shot! If you do end up trying it, let me know what your favorite meditations are on there! Or if you have any tips on meditating, share it with us! We'd love to hear from you! Happy Meditating!
All my love,
Yami