What is Meditation for?
Meditation is a tool for the mind. It's a way to anchor into the present and increase our sense of awareness. Meditation is a practice for the real world, as the more we practice it, the more focused, calm, patient and understanding we become with ourselves and others. It all starts with the daily intentional pause that is meditation.
3 Unexpected Benefits:
1. Self-Awareness
Meditation teaches us to be here now. It not only shows us how to be more aware of our surroundings, but also of all the intricacies within ourselves. Don't be surprised if you find yourself noticing unconscious habits, patterns, or unhelpful ways of thinking. Also don't be surprised if you find yourself choosing healthier behaviors, thoughts and more compassionate ways of speaking. Meditation lifts the veil so we can see and hear ourselves more clearly.
2. Increased Sensuality
In other words: improved sex life. Yep. Why? Because being present allows us to luxuriate in everything from tasting our food in all its rich flavors to feeling the soothing sensation of the breeze on your face. As sensuality is all about feeling the moment and meditation helps with that, you may feel more turned on and connected than ever.
3. Aids in Reducing Inflammation
In a study across more than 1600 participants conducted by USC and UCLA, evidence was found that mindfulness meditation aids in reducing inflammation and helps cell defense. As stress causes inflammation, when stress is lowered, so is inflammation. Stress-relief is a given, but who knew you could recover from your workout faster too?
Who is Meditation for?
This sounds like a cliché, but meditation is truly for everyone. It's the practice that keeps us centered, relaxed, and kind. It's the ultimate form of self-care. It can also be used for so many different things. Want to learn to forgive? There's a meditation for that. Want to practice focus? Meditation helps. Want to manifest a big goal at work? Drop into a guided imagery practice and visualize your way to the finish line. Oh and by the way, if you're the kind of person who says your mind is too active for meditation, you're the perfect candidate for it.
My #1 Tip:
Practice with a Guide.
The resources for meditation are endless. From free apps like Insight Timer, to channels on YouTube, to studios, to coaches you can work with one-on-one that can speak your personal meditation-language (hello!), the days of excuses are over. Wanna know a secret? I'm a certified meditation teacher and I coach clients daily and I still like guided audio better than doing it on my own. Why struggle more than you need? Get access to my library of hundreds of meditations (updated weekly) here.
