By Lorraine Alexander July 19, 2021
Read time 2 min. 49 sec.
New to meditation, or considering tackling this ancient 5,000-year practice on your own? Sounds simple enough, right? Don’t let the simplicity of meditation fool you.
A proven method properly used can transform your health and offer a positive shift in your wellbeing. If you are considering embracing this practice, save yourself the challenges of starting fresh and read on.
1. Prioritize the time to practice meditation.
The number one advantage that will establish your success is consistency. It is ideal to set your daily practice at the same time each day. This system will lessen the risk of putting it off and missing a meditation. Remember, the positive influence of meditation is cumulative, so be consistent. Keep track of your experiences by jotting down a quick note in your journal. Meditate faithfully twice a day, twenty minutes each session. Soon you will feel the benefits.
2. Eliminate caffeine, sugar, or alcohol before a meditation.
Many people make the mistake of starting their day with a heavy jolt of caffeinated coffee or tea followed by a burst of sugar in a pastry or cereal. Then they roll into meditation and try to quiet down. It is no surprise that they just sabotaged their meditation efforts! Avoid all forms of sugar and caffeine before sitting. A best practice is this: Meditate immediately upon waking (pre-caffeine), then just before dinner (before a heavy meal).
3. Stop trying so hard.
I often read this comment online, "I cannot empty my mind.” My advice is simple. Know that the goal is to quiet the mind. An effective technique will do the work — hold to your schedule and sit. Expect gradual changes. A noticeable improvement takes time and patience. Eventually, the activity of thought will lessen, and you will feel a noticeable difference.
Learn to accept that meditation is a process. Do not judge your meditation or analyze it. Accept it as it is and know you are improving each day. If something is concerning you, it's time to reach out to your instructor.
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