“You should sit in meditation for twenty minutes every day — unless you’re too busy. Then you should sit for an hour.” -Zen proverb
Life is busy. The never ending to do list can be overwhelming. I find that if I don’t make time for self-awareness as a daily routine, I start to feel it in all parts of my life.
Mindfulness and meditation have been linked to many health benefits due to it’s stress relieving positive side effects. When I implement a regular meditation practice, I am always surprised how much more aware I become during my non-meditating times.
Meditation itself clears away the clutter of the mind, similar to defragmenting a computer. The more mindful I feel, the easier it is for me to deal with stress and the happier and healthier I become. I believe meditation is the key to long life and vitality, in conjunction with a regular yoga practice and healthy eating, of course.
Here are my top 3 ways I maintain my regular mindful and meditation practice.
1. Consistency
Choose a time of day that suits your schedule – and stick to it. Make it a priority – work other commitments around it.
2. Mantras
Staying in alignment with my desire to meditate, and reviewing the reasons over and over like a mantra, help me remember why I make time to sit and be still. Your mantra may be complex, or simple – be guided by your day, your emotions and how you are feeling.
A simple mantra to try next time you sit in silent meditation is to inhale as you say internally ‘let’ and exhale as you say ‘go’. Follow the wave of your breath.
2. Relax
So many people worry about not meditating properly, or finding it hard to turn off their thoughts. That’s why techniques like mantras help to give focus. But most of all, don’t be so hard on yourself. Simply find stillness, close your eyes, and breathe – allow yourself to relax, it will become more natural as your meditation practice evolves.
“Awareness is like the sun. When it shines on things, they are transformed.” Thich Nhat Hanh
See you on your mats.
Sweat, stretch & smile,
Kacey
————————————
Detoxify & energise with Hot Yoga. Tone & sculpt with Power Flow. Strengthen & stretch with Basics and Slow Flow. Relax & mobilise with Yin Yoga at our beautiful studios in Hawthorn & Hampton, Melbourne. Our studios also host regular workshops, Victorian and overseas retreats to exotic places like Bali, Thailand & India, as well as a mobile yoga service for community, school and corporate groups.
Our Hampton studio has now opened our classes up to the Bayside area including surrounding suburbs such as Sandringham, Brighton, Black Rock, Highett and Beaumaris. Enjoy modern facilities, expert teachers and a range of complementary wellness services for optimal health.
Facebook: Kula Yoga Australia Instagram – @kulayoga Youtube – Kula Yoga Australia
