The first thing I tell people on how to improve their wellbeing is to meditate.  People think meditating is very hard to do but its actually one of the easiest things to do and the benefits are amazing.  You may think you have to spend hours meditating but you can do it for a few minutes a day and you will feel the benefits.  Some of the benefits which can be different for everyone are:

 

Reducing and managing stress

Increasing your self-awareness

Increasing your imagination and creativity

Increasing your patience

Lowering your resting heart rate and blood pressure

Improving sleep quality

 

I’ve been doing it for a long time and I know what a difference it makes.  There’s many types of meditations and you will each find your favourite.  Personally I prefer guided meditation where there is a voice or I just listen to some relaxing music.  Its better with headphones as these block out other sounds but they are not necessary.

 

The goal of meditating is to get to a state where you can think about nothing.  Or if you do have thoughts that you are aware of them rather than thinking about them.  When you lie in the bath and relax or if you’re in the shower and all you hear is the water, then these are form of meditation.  You always feel better after these.  That’s how easy it is.  You can even do it on the bus or when you are out walking.

 

 

Starting to meditate

An easy way to start meditating is to sit in a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. Relax and close your eyes.  All you need to do is focus on your breathing.  You don’t need to change your breathing, just let it be natural.  Focusing on your breathing helps you to take your mind of your thoughts.

 

I’ll be honest, it does take a while to get to the point where your mind is clear.  But if you persevere you will get there.  Most people give up after a few days or weeks.  But I promise you if you keep doing it you will become better and you will feel the benefits.

 

You don’t have to spend hours doing it although the longer you can do it for then the better you will feel.

 

You can start for a few minutes and then build it up.  Don’t set any targets, just do what feels natural and stop when you want to.  This will help you to keep enjoying it rather than feeling as though you have to do it.