This year, I’m excited to partner with Komen Greater New York City for their 2020 Virtual Race for the Cure as a Power 30 Ambassador! As a caretaker to my 92-year-old grandmother who is a two-time breast cancer survivor, I’m thrilled to help Komen celebrate their Journey to 30 in honor of their 30th year. Today, I’m sharing one of my wellness practices with the Komen community, and I invite you to join us as we Journey to 30!
Summer 2020 has finally arrived, but like everything else that has come with the first part of this year, it may not look like what you expected. If you’ve found yourself feeling antsy, cooped up, or anxious, starting a meditation practice may be just what you need to help you cool down.
As a wellness blogger and health coach, I know firsthand how life can sometimes interfere with my emotional and physical health. That’s what led me to start my own meditation practice nearly five years ago and has kept me on the journey today. No matter what kind of day I’ve had, setting aside 10 minutes for a mindful meditation practice can help clear my mind and allow me to shift my focus in a positive direction.
If you’re reading this and thinking, ‘I don’t have time’ or ‘I don’t know how to start a meditation practice,’ allow me to break it down for you and show you just how simple it can be.
- Choose a time that works for you: You know your schedule better than anyone, so set yourself up for success by finding time in your day where you can be present. For some, that’s first thing in the morning before they’ve gotten out of bed and had their coffee. For others, like myself, it’s right before bed. Once you have a time, try to stick to it by adding it to your phone’s calendar and setting a reminder. Like with anything else, creating a new routine takes a commitment to make it a habit.
- Find a place that invites you to feel calm: Do you have a favorite spot in your apartment or house? A corner that lets in the beautiful light from the outdoors? Use whatever space feels inviting to you—even if that’s a cushion on the floor, your couch, or outside on your deck. Find a spot that will allow you to concentrate on your breathing and where you won’t be easily distracted by external stimuli.
- Download an app: If you are new to meditation, an app that offers short guided meditations is a great way to get started. I’ve been using the Calm app for years and love that it gives me daily meditations that help keep me grounded and present. Each night, I look forward to the 10 minutes that I’ve carved out for myself and enjoy drifting off to sleep after assessing my mind and body. Did I mention that a bonus of meditation is improved sleep?
Developing a regular meditation practice takes time, so don’t get discouraged if your mind wanders or you find it difficult to commit. Over time, it will get easier, I promise, and as you start noticing the added health benefits of a meditation practice, such as reduced stress and anxiety, increased attention span, and better emotional health, it will become a welcome part of your daily routine.
Photo Credit: Diana Davis Creative
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