Avery Bullock
As part of our last 90 days challenge, we are discussing ways that we can finish the year stronger than we started, and meditation is a really great way to do just that. Crowding out the bad stuff, like too much stimulation, too much tv, too much time stressing and thinking–those are all things that can rob us of our health. That’s why in today’s post by guest writer, Avery Bulluck, we are going to talk about how you CAN fit meditation into your schedule.
Photo by Prasanth Inturi from Pexels
Meditation focuses on the mind, releases stress, and restores a sense of inner calm. It helps you to maintain control amidst the emotional shifts and life changes we experience daily. Nevertheless, when we are juggling hectic schedules, it can be difficult to fit meditation into our day.
In a perfect world, you would meditate at a certain hour each day for a fixed period of time. You would also be seated in a peaceful space on a comfortable cushion. However, that is not reality. In real life, we have kids, we share living spaces, our work schedules are unpredictable, and life throws curveballs at us. Therefore, flexibility is vital in your meditation schedule.
You need to move away from traditional meditation practice – one that is typically free of distractions and noises – and instead search out opportunities to meditate amidst the commotion and excitement of our daily life.
At Your Desk
If you are at your desk, whether it be at the office or home, close your office door, plug your headphones into your computer, and refresh your mind and clear your thoughts by taking a quick meditation break. There are countless YouTube channels and meditation websites that you can watch while at your desk.
In Transit
Whether you are on a plane, train, bus, or subway, being in this enclosed space provides a perfect opportunity for meditation practice. Guided breathing meditations or guided visualization meditations can be listened to on your smartphone or iPod. You can also carry mala beads (or prayer beads) in the form of a necklace or bracelet. While moving your fingers over the beads, repeat a phrase or a mantra for a set period of time.
In the Car
If your job requires a lot of driving or if you are the family chauffeur, there will be plenty of times while on pickup duty or before a meeting when you are just stuck sitting somewhere in a parked car. Make sure to carry a meditation CD in your vehicle and put it in your CD. Now, choose a track that is appropriate for the amount of time you have available.
On a Walk
Whether you are walking to meet friends, on your lunch hour from work, or on your way to pick up your children from sports practice, consider trying a moving meditation. This is a great way to maintain your mental clarity.
In Bed
When the time has arrived to wind down and the day is finally done, it is the ideal time to finally let go of the mental clutter from your day. While lying in bed, trying to practice mindful meditation. Not only does a mindful meditation relax the body, but it also frees the mind of stress and prepares you for a good night’s rest.
While practicing meditation on the go, there are still ways to take advantage of the many benefits. There is no need to confine your practice to a specific place or time.