How to Start Meditating?

Meditation is considered one of the greatest ways to alleviate stress and bring peace in life. This article will be focusing on the fundamental things you need to keep in mind when starting meditation. The process of meditation may seem intimidating to beginners. But this article is going to change your perception. Let's get ready to dive into the details of decades-old mindfulness practice - meditation.

Firstly, you have to let go of your pre-existing beliefs about the effectiveness of meditation. Some may think it works, some may think it doesn't. You do not want your preconceived ideas about meditation to obstruct your practice. Besides, there are some other basic preparations that you need to take care of before starting the practice. I'm going to list them down for you.

• Find a quiet place
• Get comfortable in your practicing space
• Set alarm

Once you are in the zone, it gets easier to get into the actual practice. You might wanna use some meditation app or meditation guide to help you in the beginning. But it is completely okay if you want to do it on your own.

You may think that you won't be able to control your distracting thoughts during meditation. Bear in mind, meditation is not about suppressing the thoughts; it's about acknowledging the thoughts, embracing the thoughts, and then surpassing them. Do not worry about being perfect or best. If you are consistent in your practice and make it a routine, then you'll get better as you go.

Jumping right into the 1-hour long meditation session might get extremely difficult in the beginning. Setting achievable goals is the key to benefit from meditation. It is recommended to start with 3 to 5 minutes. Once you get familiar with the practice, you'll find your own groove and set your schedules accordingly.

Once you have settled in your practicing space, find a position in which your body feels the most comfortable and close your eyes. Start noticing your breath as it goes in and out. Do not try too hard to control your body, just notice your existence. Just simply be. The initial goal is to be relaxed. Relaxed body, relaxed mind, relaxed muscles, relaxed self. Relaxation comes from letting go of the thoughts, letting go of the control. When the relaxation is achieved, gradually begin the breathing exercise. Inhale through your nose, hold your breath for a few seconds then exhale through your mouth. Repeat this exercise a few times.

While meditating, observe the changes in your body, mind, and existence. Feel your muscles contracting and relaxing. Feel the worries leaving your body. Feel the movement of ribs, stomach, diaphragm as you inhale and exhale. Observe how often your mind wanders and gets distracted. Observe any and every change that happens in your body.

When the alarm goes off, gradually open your eyes. Notice your surrounding and feel the change. The goal of meditation is to keep you in the present and make you aware of your own patterns. It gives you the realization that you are in control to let go of worrisome thoughts. You alone are enough!