How to Meditate
Living in the moment is easier said than done. Minds are apt to wander, and it's easy to get distracted by dwelling on mistakes from the past, being apprehensive about the future, or fretting about whether or not the front door was locked when you left the house for work this morning. Meditation is a way to train your mind to stay in the present moment, and is also a calming practice that leads to less stress and better connections with others. To learn how to meditate properly, read on.
Meditation Tips
How to meditate for beginners: Before getting started, clear your mind of any misconceptions you might have about how to start meditating. Understand that everybody from business leaders to baristas can benefit from the private practice, and go forth. For beginners, all that's needed is to set aside five to 10 minutes a day without distractions. Additionally, approach mediation as if it will help you become more aware of your thoughts, not be thought-free.
Location, location, location: To learn how to meditate, begin by finding a quiet place where you won't be disturbed. Whether it's outdoors, in a dedicated space in your house, in a private room at work, or inside a private, sensory-managed float tank at Urban Float, you'll want to be reasonably certain you'll have a peaceful place to disconnect from the past and future and be here, now.
How to do meditation: Start simple. Meditation methods and traditions abound, but figuring out where to begin shouldn't be an added stress. How do you meditate if you've never tried it before? First, choose a posture that works for your body and is sustainable for the amount of time you plan to meditate. Whether in lotus position on a cushion on the floor or sitting in a comfy chair, keep your back straight, relax your shoulders and release any tension you notice in your body. Take a few deep breaths to stimulate the relaxation response, then begin.
How to meditate properly: Mindful breathing, sitting as still as possible, choosing a time when your mind is calm, and being consistent with your practice by establishing a routine are meditation tips that may lead to a long-term commitment to a more stress-free life. Pay attention to physical sensations, thoughts and emotions during the time you've put aside for yourself. Don't attach yourself to these thoughts, but rather acknowledge them and move on.
Build your practice: You may find that 10 minutes a day isn't enough, and need to change your routine to allow for more time to learn how to meditate to the best of your abilities. If further guidance is needed, try guided meditation apps or sign up for a class. Taking part in activities that actively encourage meditation—such as a session in one of our float tanks—is another way to learn how to meditate. It's not a daily practice, but it counts.
