Meditation Tips for Beginners

Life is crazier than ever. We are so constantly bombarded with noise, distractions and commitments that we forget to slow down and take time for ourselves. One way to deal with the stress is to practice daily meditation. But if you're not familiar with the practice, it can be a bit difficult understanding how to start and what to do. Here are a few tips to help you start meditating and reclaim your life.

Your day may be packed but it's important to find the time. Of course you have to work around your daily schedule. If you're a parent, for example, the ideal time might be at night after the kids are asleep. If morning works better, set your alarm to wake you up a few minutes earlier. Trying short meditations at first - even 10 to 20 minutes is a good start. You can always adjust the length and time as your schedule changes (and it inevitably will). Just remember, meditation isn't a marathon and your sessions may be longer or shorter depending on the events of the day.

Of course we'd all love to meditate in front of the ocean at sunset but few of us have that luxury and even outside meditation is dependent on weather. Find a place in your home that's quiet and free from disruptions. A second bedroom, a den, even a basement can become an oasis from the daily grind. Put down some comfortable pillows, hang a beautiful picture on the wall or just set out fresh flowers. The idea is to make the area as calm and as peaceful as you want to feel after your meditation, so add that personal touch of something that makes you happy.

Most people think you have to sit cross-legged during meditation with your palms in the air, but that's not necessarily the case. Unlike yoga, meditation does not involve the physical, so don't push yourself into a position that you don't feel fully relaxed . Instead, find a position that works for your own body which could be a seated position or lying flat on your back. Use props if you'd like, sitting on pillows or putting a bolster under bent knees can keep you calm and still. Also, wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of breath and movement.

This is your time so make it your own. While meditation is supposed to take you away from noise and stress, absolute silence is not necessary unless of course that's what you like. Some people prefer songs (preferably with no lyrics) or nature sounds like a babbling brook or a relaxing rainfall. If you're fairly new to meditation, try a guided meditation. You can find countless guides on YouTube, cable or streaming devices for free. If you'd rather try on your own, sit or lay still with your eyes closed and clear your mind. This may be difficult at first, but problems can wait. Focus on your breath. If your mind starts to wander, steer it back and if you can't stop thinking, focus on the positive, rather than the negative.

Meditation is not a competition and your practice depends solely on you. So whatever the time of day, the place and the type of meditation you decide upon, remember to relax, unwind and enjoy! Your life will be better for it.