There’s no one way to meditate (just like there’s no one way to do anything!)
Do I sit on the floor in a cross legged position with my eyes closed regularly? No. Do I often make a point to be aware of my thoughts (without judgement) and choose to be present instead of letting my mind wander? Yes.
What is Meditation?
Meditation is an activity that focuses our attention on what’s happening in the mind and body at the present moment by not allowing our thoughts to wander (and not judging those thoughts).
A common misconception about meditation is that the mind must be completely devoid of thoughts. What the practice actually entails is being aware of the thoughts that appear while not letting them take you into the past or future. The point of meditation is to become aware of what your mind and body are doing as the thoughts arise, and to refocus again and again back to the present. In this way, meditation can help us realize what we are worried or anxious about. It can also teach us to stay calm in other life situations.
Meditation is an act of radical acceptance of what is.
Our thoughts will inevitably keep coming and take us into the past and into the future, two places where we have absolutely no control. The practice of meditation is being aware that this is happening, while consciously choosing to return your attention again and again to the present moment.
Activities like playing with your kids, pets, cooking, folding laundry, walking, running, painting, doing your physical therapy exercises ;) can all become a meditation if that is your intention. There’s not one way to do it but it does need to be deliberate and intentional. Some experts may refer to this type of meditation as a ‘contemplative practice” or an “informal meditation practice” but the differences are subtle and the benefits are the same. So call it whatever the heck you want!
"A rose by any other name would smell as sweet"
You might think you don’t “meditate” but if you take a closer look, you may already have a very important meditation practice/routine. I would love to know what it is for you!
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