Meditation sounds like a great idea. Who wouldn’t want to spend some quiet time, reduce stress, and be more peaceful? But seriously, who has time? And those positions? And the chanting? It just seems too complicated, right?
Wrong! According to an article in Women's Health Magazine based on research at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, meditation can be easier than you think!“The practice itself is relatively easy,” says Bodian, who compares meditation to running. You have to build muscle in order to run far and for long periods of time, just like you have to train your mind to be attentive and aware ["mindful"]. All you need to do is breathe. Once you’re sitting quietly, close your eyes, and inhale and exhale easily and fully,” says Stephan Bodian, author of Meditation for Dummies.
- Tips to get started:
- Get a book or video to help figure it out.
- Begin with just two or three minutes per day. The more you do it, the better you’ll feel. You’ll want to do more!
- Try meditating in the morning for the most benefit.
- Wear comfy clothes.
- Find a comfortable position. Sit, stand, or lie down, able to relax but not fall asleep.
- Don’t expect too much. Your thoughts won’t stop just because you tell them to! Concentrate on your breathing, and let your mind be free. Think perhaps, but don’t be involved in your thoughts.
- Chanting isn’t required, but quiet is. Turn off the TV, radio, cell phone, and so on.
Meditation lowers blood pressure and heart rate. It has been shown to lower stress and improve productivity. Give it a try; you’ll be happy you did! Get more valuable information in Eliz’s new book, The Busy Woman’s Guide to a Healthy Heart, or in her award-winning blog. More>>
