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In an increasingly fast-paced world filled with endless distractions and stressors, more people than ever are exploring meditation as a means of boosting their physical and emotional health. 

Everyone and anyone can meditate. It doesn’t require any equipment and you can practice for just a few minutes every day. From sitting in silence for an hour to a two-minute power pose, or grounding exercise as you walk down the street - simply find a technique that works for you.  

It may not feel natural at first but stick with it. Build on your practice over time and you could begin to benefit in the following ways: 

1. Reduced Stress  

We all experience various levels of stress throughout our daily lives, and there is little doubt that the uncertain and changing times have impacted our wellbeing. With many of us now spending more time at home, it is an ideal time to explore how mediation can help to counterbalance the anxiety you may be feeling.  

When you reach the deep relaxation that meditation offers, your systems reduce the level of cortisol flying around your body. You will feel less agitated and more composed. The same effect is also achieved when trying an activity such as yoga, which combines meditative breathing and relaxation with controlled physical movement.  

2. Increased Self-Awareness  

Meditation helps you to build a stronger connection between your mind and body. Physically, as you become conscious of your breath, you can focus on how your body feels. Are there any niggles you need to address? This ‘checking-in’ helps us to begin to appreciate your body, and all that it does for you.

And by letting thoughts pass by without judgement, you can develop an understanding of your emotions and nurture your compassion for yourself, and others. Over time, this can help you to feel more kind and loving to yourself, and in tune with your sense of self. 

3. Improved Focus  

Meditation is based on being very much in the moment and working towards a state of ‘flow’ where your mind feels in complete harmony with itself. This is achieved with regular practice to gradually improve your ability to switch off from distractions and to concentrate on being present and engaged with yourself. It is like a mindfulness workout for the brain! 

Over time, your enhanced focus and mental clarity become intuitive, and you can calm the internal chatter and the external disruptions in your daily life to conquer tasks more efficiently.  

4. Better Sleep 

Meditation promotes better quality sleep precisely because of the benefits outlined above. A regular practice relieves stress and promotes a relaxed and peaceful mindset. And by meditating at bedtime, you can reduce your feelings of stress and agitation. You can focus on controlling the racing thoughts that stand in your way of falling (and staying) asleep. You also give yourself the opportunity to rest, knowing you deserve time to recharge.  

How to Start… 

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to meditation. Find a technique that works for you, and your life and commit to practicing it regularly to get the maximum benefit. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Amy Cuddy’s Power Pose – check out her brilliant Ted Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_may_shape_who_you_are/transcript?language=en
• Explore the many free meditation apps available for guided sessions and quick tips such as
• Headspace and Insight Timer which are both good for beginners. 
• YouTube has guided meditation videos you can use free of charge – you may have to try a few to find one that feels right for you.
• Join a yoga class and combine meditation with exercising or find a local or online guided meditation session to join.

Make Meditation a Habit

Take time to meditate regularly to build a practice that becomes a habit. Set a reminder on your phone at the most convenient time for you, for example, get up a few minutes early to take advantage of quiet time in the morning. Alternatively, try meditation at bedtime.

I passionately believe we all deserve to have a brilliant, healthy, happy life full of meaning and love. 

As ever, if you need more support with this, book a free call and find out how I can help you.