Easy Ways to Meditate

Consistently accessing a calmer mind is simpler than you think.

Ever since the Dalai Lama and his infectious laugh became mainstream in western culture, people have been fascinated by meditation. Much like physical fitness, it seems to only have benefits for your overall health and happiness.

But for newbies who have only heard of it or seen the Hollywood versions of meditation where people are surrounded by crystals and incense chanting together, it can feel intimidating.

And as a general culture that has come to believe there are “right” ways to do something or that we need some external teacher to assure us we’re doing it “correctly,” it can feel like an intangible or intimidating task.

It doesn’t need to be. In fact, it shouldn’t feel that way.

It is simple. It is instinctual. It is intuitive.

It is all about slowing down and calming down. It’s as easy as taking a breath.

To get you started on your meditation journey, here are a few easy, everyday ways to access your quieter mind. Start here. Continue to do whatever you heart tells you to. Your body knows. Trust it.

For bonus points, notice how the feels as it enters and exists your nostrils.

Maybe even close your eyes so you can lose yourself even more in the music.

Listen to the noises around you. Tune into the birds. Breathe in the fresh air.

Starting with your toes and moving your way up to your skull, just notice.

Whatever you love to do, carve out time to do it and cut off the rest of the world while you do it.

There are great apps available like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer.

Set a timer and let yourself do nothing. Boredom can be beautiful and cleansing. Relish in it.

If you are interested in meditating with a teacher or in a group, I run a weekly donation-based meditation class on Mondays at 8:30 pm PST.

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