Learning how to meditate is probably one of the hardest things I’ve experienced. Even today, I can’t say that meditation comes easily to me.
As Wayne Dyer said, “Meditation is difficult for many people because their thoughts are always on some distant object or place. One form of meditation is to label the thought as it appears and then choose to let it go.”
But what if you still can’t meditate the way you want to – or the way you think it ought to be done?
Here are some hacks that will make it easier for you to start and continue a meditation routine.
WARNING: It’s probably easier than you think, and you’ll find yourself meditating more than you expected.
Hack #1: Take baby steps
Some people, especially achievers, like to do things in a “one time, big time” manner. The mentality “If others can sit still and meditate for an hour, why can’t I?” is not uncommon, but if you can’t do this, why force it?
It doesn’t mean you’re a failure. It just means you need to be easier on yourself. Meditation is not about forcing yourself to do things.
Try this: Meditate for 5 minutes. After days (or weeks) and you feel comfortable, go for 10. Then 15. And so on.
Hack #2: Do guided meditation
Sitting (or lying) still “without doing anything” can be difficult simply because you’re not used to it. By doing guided meditation, you ease into the practice of clearing your mind.
Take a look at our article, 4 Guided Meditation Apps to Help You Get Started for more information on the tools you can use.
Hack #3: Don’t put meditation in a box
That is, don’t think about meditation as being a set of rules. You don’t have to sit with a straight back. You don’t have to put your hands in a particular position. You don’t need to do all those things. The Dalai Lama himself emphasizes the fluid nature of meditation.
Throw away all your perceived notions about meditation and start with:
- finding a comfortable position – any position
- breathing consciously
- letting your thoughts flow as they will.
Take another approach to meditation. Don’t think of it the “normal” way. Here’s something to ponder on:
We tend to think of meditation in only one way. But life itself is a meditation. – Raul Julia
Enjoy simple things with total intensity. Just a cup of tea can be a deep meditation. – Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh
Hack #4: Do it regularly
Meditation is a habit, and just like any habit, you have to do it regularly for it to become part of your routine. Even if you don’t feel like meditating on a certain day, do it. If you are too busy, the more you ought to do it. That’s likely when you need it the most.
Originally posted on July 6, 2016 @ 8:30 am
