"Hurry up and relax" seems to be the most common mindset during a busy individual's down time. Honestly, who has the time and patience to fully commit to relaxation? Certainly not me! But when I made my annual trip to Sparkling Hills Resort and Spa, I found myself in a state so serene, I couldn't help but focus %100 of my attention on mindful relaxation. What do I mean by mindful you may ask? Well, there is a large difference between chilling on the couch for an evening, Chinese food in hand, watching The Bachelor (which if you saw the other night, was not at all relaxing) and completely secluding yourself from the world through meditation. You must know that I am not some sort of yogi that meditates at sunrise or something like that, though that would be pretty cool. But I did start meditating a few months ago and I can truly see the positive effects it has on my life. Not only has my mindset been more positive and less worrisome, but my energy levels have increased and I find myself being a more patient, understanding, confident person.
So, how do I go about meditating? It's not some big ordeal like you may think. Simply a few minutes a day can make the biggest difference. And you don't have to be in spa to do it! Though, it does make for some nice pictures.
Enjoy.
When you find the time to relax, make sure you're fully committed to it. It's not as simple as just sitting in a comfortable chair and closing your eyes. True relaxation takes some serious brain power. Once you've practiced the ability to separate yourself from the world, it becomes easier and easier to achieve this "zen" state. I don't pretend to be an expert at it. My mind is constantly racing from one thing to the next. But that's just who I am, and I don't want to change that, I just want to be able to control it.
When you're ready to relax, make sure you won't be interrupted. Phones, laptops and people can all be very distracting and disruptive. This is your chance to escape from the world. You deserve this time to be completely alone. I've actually found myself becoming more and more at peace when I'm alone since I started meditating. I used to fear being alone, now I enjoy it, which I think is so important for everyone to feel. Put yourself into the right setting and relish in the relaxation. Maybe you listen to music (I'd suggest instrumental), or maybe not. It's up to you to make sure all your senses are at ease. Light a scented candle or spray your favorite perfume. Hold on to something cool to the touch or snuggle in a soft, warm blanket. Listen to the sounds of nature (I'd highly recommend the Calm app) or sit in complete silence. Let the sunshine pour into the room or cover your eyes. This is your time, why not make it perfect?
In order to properly enter a state of utter relaxation, one must have the proper mindset. This is extremely difficult. When you meditate, it is so easy to allow thoughts enter your mind. Frustration is normal, but you just have to take notice to the thoughts and then gently push them out of your mind.
If you find it challenging to keep your mind empty, try and focus on individual parts of your body. I like starting from my toes and slowly working up. For each body part, notice any tingling or tension and then imagine it melting in relaxation. You'll be surprised how quickly the time will pass as you graciously shift your focus all over your body. Another great way to meditate, without scrunching your face up in effort to empty your mind, is to practice gratitude. While you rest, think of the simple things in life that bring you joy and happiness.
If you find it challenging to keep your mind empty, try and focus on individual parts of your body. I like starting from my toes and slowly working up. For each body part, notice any tingling or tension and then imagine it melting in relaxation. You'll be surprised how quickly the time will pass as you graciously shift your focus all over your body. Another great way to meditate, without scrunching your face up in effort to empty your mind, is to practice gratitude. While you rest, think of the simple things in life that bring you joy and happiness.
If "not thinking" isn't your thing, I'd recommend another, less nap inducing way of clearing your mind. Reading, as well as the new trend of colouring, can also help you to step away from the struggles and stresses of everyday life.
Spring is coming and to make the most of it, try something new that can make you feel happier and positive. Meditation can have such an amazing effect on your life, just as is has on mine.
Thanks for reading.
-Emily
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