Hello and blessings to all during this lovely spring season. Working at Holistic Apothecary we talk about meditation a lot. We often hear people say, “I can’t meditate” or “I don’t really have time to meditate.” Well, today we’d like to share some tips to easily make meditation part of your daily routine. It’s much easier than you think, and takes less time than you can imagine.
Making the Time – “I’m too busy” or “there’s not enough time in a day” are just excuses to not take time for you. Meditating is not just a way of pampering yourself; it’s a way of nurturing yourself. It’s a way for us to release all the energetic and emotional baggage we picked up throughout the day. Or to start the day with a clean slate, without any stress or worries of what is to come. This might come as a surprise to many, but meditating does not have to take an hour, or even a half hour. In 3-5 minutes you can clear, center and ground yourself. Being ready to take on whatever the day has to offer. As you move forward, you may find yourself wanting to meditate longer. Add a few minutes each day, or set aside time once a week to do one longer meditation. Remember, a short meditation is better than not meditating at all.
Making the Space – Many people think they need to have a sacred space with crystal and candles or incense burning in the background in order to meditate. While all of these things are great and certainly add to the meditation, it is possible to meditate without them. You only need a few minutes to transform a space into your own private sanctuary. Be it on the train/bus, in bed before you get up, in the bathroom, or in the parking lot at work. One way to do this is to create your own personal bubble. Visualize yourself holding a sphere of your favorite color light. Now expand that sphere of light so that you and only you are in it, clearing any energy from it that is not yours. Now you have your own space. Please DO NOT meditate while driving or doing any other tasks that require your full attention. Always be sure that your environment is safe, and that you will be safe for a few moments while your eyes are closed. As your meditations progress, you may decide to create a sacred space used specifically for them. You can add candles, incense, oils, crystals, a mat to sit on, prayer beads, a meditation shawl to wear, or some music to help create the space and intention for your meditation. Whatever works for you…go with it!
Making the Commitment – It can be a little overwhelming to commit time and energy to new daily tasks. What’s great about meditation is that no one is going to yell at you if you don’t do it. You are not in competition with anyone, so if you forget, it is no big deal. If you choose to not do it, no biggie…if you choose to do it, you will see the true reward … Try not to pressure yourself into meditating, and don’t beat yourself up if you forget. We think that once you start, you will notice how beneficial it is. You will want to make sure you are doing it as often as you can.
Making the Meditation – There are many, many ways to meditate. The intention for the meditation will determine how you will go about it. If you find you have difficulties clearing your mind, a guided meditation may be helpful. You can purchase guided meditations on CD or download them, or come into Holistic Apothecary. We have guided one hour meditations once a month. If you’d rather do your own, that is great too.
Here are some ideas you can add to your meditations.
You can do one or all, it’s up to you. Enjoy!!
*Once you are comfortable, sitting, standing or lying down, it’s time to begin. A nice place to start, with any meditation, is to focus on your breaths. Slow them down and concentrate on them. With each inhale, feel the breaths fill the body with oxygen, all the way to your fingers and toes. As you exhale, release any stress, anger, fear, sadness, doubt or anything that you no longer want.
*Your mind is stronger than you may think, USE IT. It can be as simple as making statements like, “I release all fear and worry”, ”I release any blockages holding me back spiritually, mentally and physically” or “I love and respect myself.” Come up with an affirmation that works for you or find one that resonates with you. You can say or think it once, or repeat it over and over like a mantra. This may help if you have difficulties clearing the dialogue out of your head.
*Staying centered and grounded can sometimes be tricky, especially for those who do a lot for other people. This could help. Bring white light down into your crown chakra (top of the head), straight down through your body towards your feet. Imagine each chakra getting brighter and larger as the white light moves through it. Once the light gets to your toes, visualize golden roots extending from your feet down towards the core of the earth and wrapping around it. Continue to bring the light through yourself and down to the earth’s core. Feel the connection with our planet, and enjoy it!!
*Sometimes a meditation can be somewhat of a “get away” from everyday life; a chance to clear and recharge. Try going to a special place in your meditation. It can be real or imagined. Start by visualizing the trip. Are you taking a train or airplane? You can even use a hot air balloon or a canoe. Get into your vehicle, imagine the trip, and then feel all the joy when you get there. It helps if you use all of your senses. What does the air smell like? How does the seat feel? Can you taste anything? Can you hear any birds or other animals? Is the sun shining bright? Truly be in your meditation. Remember to take the trip home when you are finished with your “vacation”. This will help you to feel more grounded when your meditation is complete.
We hope you enjoy these tips and use them to assist you with your meditations.
Be creative, be safe and have fun.
Remember…in YOUR life, there should always be time for YOU.
Love & Light,
Giuseppe @ Holistic Apothecary
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