Meditation Is For Hippies (and Other Lies We Tell Ourselves)

We know what you’re thinking- isn’t meditation just for “woo” folks and hippies? The answer: no. Meditation is for everyone and can transform our ability to heal on a daily basis.  

Mindfulness meditation is a practice. 

It’s “practice” because we need to learn how to recognize when our minds are doing their normal everyday routine, and perhaps pause to be aware of such routines will being more selective of what we’d like to focus on. It’s about slowing down and paying attention. 

Meditation helps us have a much healthier relationship with ourselves and others, opening an important dialogue about our thought patterns and behaviors.

Why meditate?
1: Understanding (and creating space for) pain
2: Lowering stress
3: Connect better
4: Improved focus
5: Reduced brain noise

How to Meditate

Meditation is both simple and difficult. The challenge is accepting what comes and goes. 

1) Take a seat

2) Set a time limit (5-10 min).

3) Notice your body- select a position you can remain in for a while

4) Feel your breath- equal parts in (4) and out (4)

5) Notice when your mind has wandered

6) Do not judge your wandering mind- accept it 

7) Close with kindness- notice your emotions

Repeat as much as needed- at least once daily!

Little moments of quiet, reflection and calm can add up to a big difference in helping our brains to make sense of what is happening on a daily basis.