Meditate to Feel Great
Monday, January 18th, 2021The pandemic (global outbreak) of the coronavirus disease COVID-19 has challenged people’s mental well-being, as well as their physical health. Many people have struggled with uncertainties about their jobs, health, schooling, and the welfare of faraway family members, for instance. Such worries can elevate stress levels, leaving people feeling anxious. One way that some people relieve stress and anxiety is to meditate. Meditation is the act of thinking deeply and at length. Meditation can have a variety of benefits, including improved sleep and focus and reduced anxiety.
Most meditation consists of exercises intended to create a state of peace and relaxation, heightened awareness, or spiritual purification. Much meditation is part of religious practice, and most major religions have systems of meditation. In some religions, the individual meditates through the repetition of a specific sound, word, or text. For example, Hindus and Buddhists meditate by repeating a sound or verse called a mantra. Some meditation involves focusing on a certain visual image. In Tantric Buddhism, the individual concentrates on a sacred diagram of the universe called a mandala. Objects or physical actions may enhance meditation. For example, Roman Catholics may meditate while reciting and counting prayers on a string of beads called a rosary.
A Hindu system of meditation called yoga involves special sitting positions, breath control, and other physical disciplines. Many non-Hindus in Western countries practice some form of yoga exercise to improve their health and achieve peace of mind.
Yoga is an easy form of meditation to incorporate into your daily life. For instance, while you brush your teeth, stand on one leg and place the sole of the opposite foot on the calf of your standing leg. Straighten up through your core until you feel as tall as a tree. (This pose is called tree pose!) Close your eyes and focus on your breathing—or the sound of your toothbrush. Being present and focusing on your breathing can create a moment of calm.
After you brush your teeth, you can continue your meditative morning at breakfast. As you wait for your favorite breakfast—perhaps for a waffle to pop out of the toaster—breathe deeply for about 30 seconds. Breathing deeply means slow inhales . . . and slow exhales . . . Although you might be tempted to lick your lips or butter your toast, keep your body still. A quiet body helps focus your thoughts.
Meditation offers a variety of benefits. But, to get the most from your meditation, be sure to find the meditation that works best for you. Maybe you would enjoy starting each morning with a few yoga poses. Maybe you would like to draw a picture of something that makes you happy. Perhaps you could read a page from your favorite book. No matter your method, be sure to find some time in your day for a moment of calm and happiness.