Strengthening The Mind Through Meditation
Our daily life is constantly busy, we are rushed and our thoughts race in our mind but sometimes it would be nice to slow them down, to take a break, to learn how to relax and pause the whirlwind of our thoughts.
What is meditation?
This is a practice aimed at relaxing the mind, reconnecting the body with the mind by learning to focus one's thoughts, mind through a still and relaxed body, and controlled breathing. Meditation allows one to feel less bound by their thoughts as it teaches them to let them go, to watch them pass without letting them take hold of us. Meditation allows, when achieved, a deep relaxation of one's being that frees us from negative thoughts and energy.
How does it work?
Meditating means focusing on the present moment, on the sensations we feel in our bodies, on things as simple and natural as our breaths, on the sensation of our bodies touching the ground and the breeze brushing against our face. By concentrating on all these little things of the present moment, we connect our sensations, our experiences, our bodies to our thoughts. This exercise, which is not easy for everyone, is nevertheless very useful. It brings our thoughts back to the present moment, to the "here and now" as the English speakers say.
Why meditate?
In our current world, we tend to constantly think. We think about errands to run, children to pick up, the plumber to call, the trash to throw out, the meeting to prepare, vacations to plan, etc. But our thoughts are often focused on things that need to be done or will be done in the future, not now. We rarely think about what we are doing at the moment we are doing it. Do you really think about the dish you are washing when you wash it? Do you really think about the water you are pouring onto the plant when you water it? No. And that's why your body with its actions and your brain with its thoughts are rarely connected, in harmony. Meditation helps to remedy this.
What are the benefits of meditation?
Meditation allows one to reconnect with their sensations, to the present moment. To once again link their body and mind, joined together in this practice in the present moment. Meditation helps lower heart rate, promotes the development and experience of positive sensations (joy, curiosity, enthusiasm, etc.) by stimulating a specific area of the brain. Meditation improves concentration and attention, reduces stress and anxiety.
What frequency?
You can meditate as often as you want and as much as you can, there are no contraindications except for your own feelings. It is recommended to practice a little every day if you can because like a sports practice, you need to exercise before getting pleasant results.
How to meditate for beginners?
Start with 5 minutes of meditation before moving on to longer sessions by adding 5 minutes each time. You can sit, stand, or even lie down in a comfortable position in a quiet place. Your eyes can be open or closed. You can remain silent or repeat a chosen word or phrase called a "mantra". You can choose to start alone or be accompanied by joining a class or using guided meditation online. Many resources are available on the internet with just music, sounds, or even a voice to guide you. Be sure to turn off your phone or put it on silent and find a place where you won't be disturbed during your session.
What time of day to meditate?
You can meditate at the time you prefer. In the morning upon waking up to start your day off right, during your lunch break if you have the time to relax from your morning stress, or in the evening to improve your sleep. It's up to you!
