Getting started with meditation is a lot easier than you may think. There isn’t any special equipment you need to buy or classes you should be taking.
While buying a book, guided meditation audio recording or an app for your smartphone are certainly options, they aren’t necessary to get you started. All you need is yourself, peace and quiet, and a comfortable place to sit.
I’m sharing everything you need to know to get started meditating right here in this post.
1. Limit Distractions
Before we start with the actual meditation, let’s get back to distractions. In the beginning, you want to cut as many of them out as possible. Choose a quiet spot where no one will interrupt you. Turn off the ringer on your phone, close the blinds if you think it will help to create a calm and soothing space. You won’t have to go through all this trouble each time you meditate. After a little practice, you’ll be able to do this meditation exercise I’m about to share with you anytime, anywhere. But like any new skill, meditating can be a little hard in the beginning. It sounds simple enough, but it’s easy to get distracted. That’s why it’s important to set yourself up for success by cutting out any distractions you can.
2. Get Comfortable
Start by getting comfortable in a spot that’s as free of distractions as possible. Sit down either on a chair with your feet firmly planted on the ground, or sitting cross-legged on the floor. If you sit on the floor, try sitting on a cushion to help you get more comfortable. It’s important that you whatever position you choose, you’re sitting comfortably and that you’re keeping your back straight. Slumping may make you sleepy while you meditate, and bad posture may cause you some discomfort after a while.
Check out this meditation pillow to help you get comfortable and cozy whilst you meditate!
3. Begin
Now, sit down, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Notice how the air flows in and out of your nose and mouth. Try to think of nothing else. This is the hard part and something that takes practice. Start meditating for a few minutes here and there and increase the time as you move along. Don’t judge yourself when your thoughts stray. Keep bringing yourself back to the sensation of the breath anytime you notice that you’re thinking of something else.
That’s all there’s to it! Getting started with meditation is simple, so there’s no need to overcomplicate it. But like any new skill, it takes practice. Be patient with yourself. Be kind to yourself. Stick with it and keep practising these new meditation skills. You’ll be glad you did.
