Stop over-thinking!
If you’ve been wanting to start meditating, but feel a bit like you don’t know where to start, this post is for you. Meditation is a lot easier than you may have been taught to believe. Despite numerous coaches and books that seek to tell you where to begin, let me let you in on a little secret: all you need is you!
There isn’t any special equipment you need to buy or classes you should be taking. Although there’s absolutely nothing wrong with buying a book, using a guided meditation on YouTube (like I have on my channel), or using an app, you don’t even have to do that to get started.
Don’t make this hard! Sit down, lower your gaze or close your eyes, and breathe.
Yep, that’s it. These simple acts can (and should) form the basis of your meditation practice. Once you’ve mastered doing those few things at least once per day, you can add on.
Try sitting down either on a chair with your feet firmly planted on the ground, sitting cross-legged on the floor, or laying down comfortably on your back if your body allows. Make sure your back is straight. This will help ensure the breath (and energy) can move easily, and fluidly, through your entire body.
Now, I know you’ve heard folks say to “clear your mind” and think of nothing else. And, to a certain extent this is indeed the goal. Many of us get stuck on that point. It can make us feel like we’re doing this incorrectly. However, you having thoughts is not a bad thing! In fact, as you develop your practice, you’ll find that you can notice a thought come through, give passing attention to it, and then release it as you concentrate on your current moment.
This is the key.
Meditation is a practice of peaceful discipline. Through it we learn that we exist beyond our thoughts. Try it for a few moments a day and gently increase the amount of time.
That’s it.
It really is that easy. Give it a try and let me know how it goes.
Always true,
Dr. Tip
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