We tend to think of meditation as something that is too hard. So we avoid it. We are already taxed to our limits right? To add in one more thing sounds too time intensive. Let’s reframe how we choose to spend time to refuel.
Firstly, why do we meditate? To calm the mind body and spirit, to create peace and calm, to say present, to inspire clarity, be more creative etc. There are so many reasons to meditate. However misinformation about ‘the how’ is often what stops us.
9 Ideas to Meditate Your Way:
- Journaling: Writing free form as a way to work through an issue, record an experience, write your heart out on any random topic….this intense focus is meditation too. I call it ‘my musings.” Try it.
- Eating mindfully: See the quote below…it says it all. And your digestive system will thank you too!
- Poetry: Writing your own musings or reading someone else’s brilliance can be inspiring and calming.
- Gardening – Time slips away with our hands and feet in the soil.
- Photography, sculpting, painting: This creates a focus that takes us away from our worries.
- Hiking or walking: In the forest breathing deeply.
- Out for a run: Focused on your breath.
- On a motorcycle: Ride in the country completely immersed in your travels.
- Bird-watching: Observe our feathered friends, usually involves trees, fresh air and complete focus on finding them. Again, time slips away.
In what ways do you love to spend time? This is your unique way to get quiet; your personal meditation.
Whenever we are focussed and present, this can be our way of meditating…it doesn’t have to be seated, completely still with eyes closed – nope.
Your activity of choice allows you to slow down the busy mind, create space between the busyness of thoughts and get off your devices. This time can be the source of inspiration, clarity and intuitive thoughts or answers. Try it! See how you feel and how it changes your life.
“If you truly get in touch with a piece of carrot, you get in touch with the soil, the rain, the sunshine. You get in touch with Mother Earth and eating in such a way, you feel in touch with true life, your roots, and that is meditation. If we chew every morsel of our food in that way we become grateful and when you are grateful, you are happy.”
– Thich Nhat Hanh