Beginning or re-visiting a meditation practice can feel a little daunting, especially if you’ve never tried it before, or it has been a while since you’ve given it a go. Often times, we associate meditating with remaining perfectly still and eliminating all thoughts from our minds. These unrealistic expectations can push many away from the practice, and it’s no surprise why! But don’t worry, with these tips, you can develop a practice that fits your lifestyle and start reaping the tangible benefits meditation has to offer like: reduced stress, increased focus, and emotional balance.

Start Small – Keep in mind that we are training our brain, and just like any new routine or habit, lasting change comes from small steps. Try just 5 minutes a day and slowly build on it over time. This will keep it manageable, and it’s less likely you’ll feel overwhelmed.
Get Comfortable – Sitting for extended periods of time can start to feel uncomfortable pretty quickly. Sitting on a blanket or cushion helps the knees settle down lower than the hips, which can take pressure off the back, knees, and hips alike. (Pro tip: practicing yoga before meditation can help prepare your mind and body to sit longer).
Choose your Style – There are a number of different meditation styles, and there’s no one-size-fits-all for any one person. So, try different styles and see which resonate with you. Some common types are mindfulness meditation (focusing on the present moment, such as how your breath rises and falls), mantra-based meditation (repeating a calming word or phrase), or guided meditation (following along with a video or app), just to name a few.
Let Go of Expectations – Don’t worry about clearing the mind. There will be chatter, and the mind will wander. That’s just the nature of the mind. Over time the chatter will reduce and you will be able to hold focus for longer periods of time. Until then, acknowledge your thoughts without trying to change them, and regain focus on your breath, mantra, or other focus point.
Find Consistency – Try meditating at the same time each day, in the same place each time. These repetitive actions will cue your mind that it’s time to meditate, and you’ll begin to settle in faster and with more ease over time.
Reap the Benefits – Meditation is a long-term practice, and the benefits compound over time. So, keep a journal about your experiences. How you felt during your session, if you were less reactive throughout the day, if you felt generally more at ease, if you slept better at night. Remember that even the smallest progress counts!

No matter where you are in life, meditation can offer a much needed pause to reconnect with yourself. Try starting small, just a few minutes a day, and watch how it transforms not only your mind but also your overall sense of well-being. If you're looking for more yoga and meditation tips or tools, join our email list and stay connected or reach out anytime!