A Beginner’s Guide to Meditation
Usually, we are so busy thinking about what we need to do next that we feel like we don’t have time to switch off completely. For some, relaxing might include watching television, reading a book or having a bath, but even then, we struggle to totally wind down.
One of our New Year’s resolutions is to give meditation a go as we know that benefits include: stress reduction, self-awareness, reduction in age-related memory loss, controlled anxiety and increased attention span.
However, meditation is something that comes naturally to everyone (we’ve tried) , so here are some beginner’s steps you can take to make meditation part of your everyday routine.
- Get comfortable
If you’re not physically at ease, your mind isn’t going to be either. Whether you choose to lie down, sit on a chair or the floor, make sure you can hold that position for a while without getting stiff. You don’t have to sit crossed leg on the floor with. Unclench everything and release all tension from your body.
- Close your eyes
You need to eradicate as many distractions as possible, so keeping your eyes closed means you can focus properly, without watching the clock or noticing a dirty dish. If you don’t trust yourself enough, try wearing an eye mask.
- Use Essential Oils
So much of meditation is about breathing, so having a soft fragrance in the air can actually help improve your session. The Waft Room Fragrances use pure essential oils combined with rose water to create a natural, comforting smell. Our lavender scented spray may be particularly useful, as lavender oil is known to help decrease negative thoughts. If you’re struggling with a physical pain, the refreshing properties of the peppermint oil in the peppermint Waft spray can act as a natural painkiller.
- Focus on your breath
Breathe normally, thinking about how your body moves with each inhalation and exhalation. Notice your chest, shoulders and stomach. If your mind wanders, don’t force your thoughts to do anything, but gently return your focus back to your breath after acknowledging the distraction. You will think about other things, and that’s okay!
- Set a time
To begin with, it’s best to try meditating for 5-10 minutes. Set a gentle alarm so you’re not shocked out of your concentration. When you’re done, slowly bring your attention back to your surroundings, open your eyes, and take a minute to get your body and mind ready for what’s next.
- Lois Clark
