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Meditation…what comes to mind when you hear that word? A guru with a long with beard sitting cross legged on a cushion for days? Having no thoughts? Chanting “Ommmmmmm.” Sure these can all be meditation, but largely it’s much more accessible. You don’t need a cushion, several day’s time, chanting, or to even sit.
Meditation can be done anytime anywhere for any length of time. The goal isn’t really to enter this place where there are no thoughts, but rather to get to a place where you begin to understand what makes you tick. A realization of “Ahhhh so when I have these thoughts or witness this event, these are the emotions that come up. This is how it impacts me. Interesting. Now that I am aware, perhaps it won’t take control of me and I can learn to work through this process in a way that is more helpful and meaningful.
Another goal is to bring your awareness to rest on this exact time and space. My favorite way to introduce meditation for those who sitting with singular focus seems too far off is to find a safe quiet place to walk. Walk very slowly without worry of a destination. Now tune in. How does the earth feel under your feet? What sensations are happening in your body? How does the air feel flowing in and out of your lungs? What noises are around you? How does the air feel on your skin? Focus. Redirect your mind back to these things over and over and over. With practice, you will come to learn that the only moment is now. What is your favorite meditation practice?
