A couple of suggestions to help you succeed on your meditation journey.
Start Small: Begin with just 5 minutes a day. As you get more comfortable, gradually increase the time.
Create a Quiet Space: Find a peaceful spot in your home where you can meditate without distractions. Light a candle or play soft music to create a calming atmosphere.
Focus on Your Breath: Pay attention to your breathing as it flows in and out. If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath.
Use Guided Meditations: Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided sessions that are perfect for beginners. These can help you stay on track and provide structure.
Consistency is Key: Try to meditate at the same time each day, whether it’s in the morning to start your day or in the evening to unwind.
Be Patient with Yourself: It’s normal for your mind to wander during meditation. The goal isn’t to stop your thoughts but to gently guide your focus back to the present moment.
BUT STOP! This all sounds too serious and complicated!
Remember that you can find mindful moments in almost every activity. Actively choosing to focus on just one thing is also a type of meditation. Going for a mindful walk, slowly doing the dishes, petting your cat, can all be considered a moment of stillness for the mind, and once your start doing those things you will eventually want to have more.
Below are some useful products that you might find helpful.
Meditation Bench – This little bench is ridiculously comfortable. No pressure on your feet or knees, and it’s slightly tilted forward so that it’s easier to sit upright. Check the measurements before you buy one. If you have bigger feet then you want the legs of the bench to be taller so that your feet can comfortably rest underneath the seat.
Meditation cushion – A simple oval cushion if you prefer to sit on the floor with your legs crossed.
Meditation Chair – This option is if you prefer to have a back rest. This chair is very comfortable, but it requires that you sit with your legs crossed. It folds up flat and you can then also lie down on it.
Breathing Buddha – How cute is this thing? This is a simple and fun meditation tool that helps you focus on your breath. It has two breathing cycles that you can choose from. You inhale on the color green, hold the breath on the color purple, and then exhale on blue.
Noise Cancelling Headphones – Yes, they cost a fortune but if you struggle finding a quiet space to meditate then noise cancelling headphones is your answer. Wear them on the train, in a café, or even to create a calm space at home. Listening to guided meditations are one of the best ways to start your new habit, and headphones will sure help a lot.
Moving Kinetic Wall Art – Rest your eyes on this beautiful piece of art. Simply watching it move will calm the mind. Watch this video to get a better idea of how it works, and be mesmerized.
Tibetan Singing Bowl Machine – A sound box and timer in one. Playing relaxing sounds in the background can help to relax the mind, and a wonderful way to anchor the mind by using the ears.