Find Your Zen: What to Do When You Feel You Aren't Good at Meditating
Are you the type of person who JUST.CANNOT.MEDITATE?!? Has the calming practice of meditation left you feeling more frustrated than centered? Do you find yourself struggling to empty all thoughts from your mind?
Well, don't worry! You're not alone. Many people struggle with meditation, especially in the beginning. But fear not! With a few easy tips, you can unlock the benefits of meditation and embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner peace.
Why is Meditation Important?
Before we dive into the tips, let's first understand why meditation is so important. Imagine your mind as a constantly buzzing hive of thoughts, worries, and distractions. It's like a monkey swinging from branch to branch, never finding stillness. Meditation provides the opportunity to step back from this chaotic mental chatter and simply be present in the moment. It allows you to observe your thoughts without judgment, cultivating a sense of calm and clarity.
Not only does meditation reduce stress and anxiety, but it also improves focus, enhances self-awareness, and boosts overall well-being. By dedicating just a few minutes a day to meditation, you are investing in your own mental, emotional, and even physical health.
Tip 1: Release Perfection!
First, let go of what you think meditation should be. Spoiler alert: thoughts will enter your mind. You will have trouble concentrating. You will want to get up and move. That's okay. Know that everyday is different and even if you stay in a meditation for only 2 minutes, that's okay! Release what you think meditation and should be and allow what comes up for you to come with grace and gratitude. Celebrate the small victories, like moments of deep relaxation or a fleeting sense of clarity. Remember, meditation is a journey, not a destination. Each time you sit in stillness, you're nurturing your inner peace and personal growth.
Tip 2: Start Small
When you're new to meditation, it's essential to start with small, achievable goals. Don't set unrealistic expectations of sitting in silence for an hour like a seasoned monk. Begin with just a few minutes each day. Consistency is key, so commit to a manageable routine that works for you. Maybe it's five minutes in the morning or a brief meditation session during your lunch break. By starting small, you'll establish a foundation and gradually build your practice over time.
Tip 3: Focus on the Breath
One common challenge in meditation is a wandering mind. Thoughts come barging in, you lose focus, and the next thing you know, you're planning tonight's dinner or rehashing an argument from last week. But fear not! The breath can be your anchor to bring you back to the present moment.
Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. Feel the air entering your nostrils, filling up your lungs, and then slowly exhale. As you focus on your breath, observe its natural rhythm without trying to control it. Whenever you notice your mind wandering, gently direct your attention back to the breath. Like a calm ocean in the storm, the breath can guide you to stillness and serenity.
Tip 4: Embrace Guided Meditations
If you find it challenging to maintain focus during silent meditation, guided meditations can be a game-changer. These recordings, often available as apps or online, provide a soothing voice that leads you through the meditation practice step by step. You'll receive gentle instructions, calming visualizations, and prompts to guide your attention. With guided meditations, you don't need to worry about "doing it right" because the instructions are there to support and guide you. It's like having a personal meditation coach in your ear.
My favorites are Deepak Chopra's app (annual subscription required) or Insight Timer has a lot of free meditations. I like Davidji! Or, check out my guided meditation HERE.
Tip 5: Make It a Habit
Consistency is the secret sauce of meditation. Just as you wouldn't expect to build a six-pack by doing one sit-up, you can't expect transformative results from a sporadic meditation practice. Make it a daily habit, like brushing your teeth or drinking your morning coffee. Set a reminder on your phone or mark it on your calendar to ensure you devote time each day to connect with yourself. The more you practice, the easier and more enjoyable meditation becomes.
Meditation is a powerful tool that can transform your life if you stick with it. Just like any new skill, it takes time and patience to develop a meditation practice that feels natural to you. Acknowledge that you may encounter obstacles, but trust that each hurdle is an opportunity for growth. With a little perseverance and a lot of self-compassion, you'll find your zen and unlock the countless benefits of meditation. So, take a deep breath, let go of any judgments, and embark on this beautiful journey of self-discovery.
