Meditation and mindfulness have known to benefit health and wellbeing. That is why many people have been trying yoga and meditation classes.
But can you do it at home?
Is it something you can learn yourself?
The answer is, YES!
The key to learning the ways to meditate and practice mindfulness is determining the perfect fit for you. So you would know which one is perfect for you, you’ll have to try different types of meditation so you can choose the practice that feels the most comfortable for you.
To begin with, here is one type of meditation you can try; the Mantra Meditation.
Determine your mantra
A mantra is a word or phrase that you quietly repeat to yourself through meditation.
When you choose a word or phrase to repeat in the manner of a mantra, you are affirming it to yourself while allowing its meaning to seep beneath the surface and into your subconscious. This will allow you to shift your negative habits and behaviours into positive.
Some people love to use words like ‘Love’ and ‘Peace’ or the ‘So Hum’. ‘So Hum’ is a Sanskrit mantra that is commonly used which literally means ‘I am’ and is also known as the ‘Manifestation Mantra’.
Find a perfect space
The great thing about meditation is that you can do it anywhere as long as you’re comfortable. It is very essential that you find a comfortable and quiet space where you can do your meditation, so you don’t get distracted with your position or the surroundings.
You don’t need to sit cross-legged like the ones you see in yoga ads. You can simply sit on a chair or sofa or even on the floor. It depends on you if you want to use pillows or blankets whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Set yourself
To begin meditation, sit comfortably, gently close your eyes and take in deep breaths.
To take cleansing breaths, inhale slowly through your nose and exhale through your mouth.
After a few cleansing breaths, continue breathing at a normal relaxed pace through your nose with your lips gently closed. After several deep breaths, continue breathing normally at a relaxed pace through your nose and with your lips gently closed.
Begin your mantra
Once you’ve settled yourself, it’s time to begin your mantra. Start repeating your chosen mantra quietly to yourself without having to move your tongue or your lips. The repetition of your chosen mantra should be soft, soothing, and relaxed.
As you continue with your meditation, allow your breath to fall away into its rhythm. As you repeat your mantra, it should almost feel effortless.
Do not force yourself
It is normal that your mind would wander as you meditate. Instead of forcing yourself to empty your mind, become aware of your thoughts and simply return to your mantra silently. Because the more you force yourself to get rid of the distractions, you instead focus on your distractions and draw more.
Give yourself time to relax
After a few minutes of your meditation, you may then stop repeating your mantra but after so, give yourself a couple of minutes to relax while keeping your eyes closed and doing the deep breaths once again. This gives you time to prepare yourself just before you stop meditating and resuming your activity or work.