Some days I really experience the benefits of my meditation practice.
While other times… not so much.
There have been periods when I’ve sat daily. Then I’ve gone months without even considering it.
Recently I had the opportunity to join a class for group meditation, and it made a major difference in not only my ability to keep the focus, but also in my commitment to the practice. It inspired me to keep at it — with the group when I can. Or on my own when time is tight.
There’s a residual effect of sitting in meditation. For hours afterwards, my mind can operate with a single focus, and the tightness that I usually carry in my chest and shoulders dissipates. It’s not long lasting (like the many fleeting moments of life), but it gives me a glimpse of how presence leads me to feel centered.
Here’s what else I learned so far from my meditation practice:
- There will always be another itch. So I try not to start scratching.
- There will always be another thought. So I allow them to come…and hopefully go.
- The uncomfortable feeling in the body does pass…eventually (I may shift slightly sometimes to help a cramp move on— is that cheating?)
- It’s easier for me to sit after I’ve done yoga or another form of exercise. My body needs to release energy to prepare for meditation.
- The calm, or centered feeling that meditation gives me overflows into all areas of my life. It makes me a better person.
Inspired to give meditation a try? Check out this book Here
If you already have a meditation practice, it would be awesome if you could share your tips in the comments.
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Yes! A sangha helps so much! I really felt the difference a few weeks ago when I sat with a group. Deeper meditation, stronger energy, more lightness, more accountability for sitting with it all and being quiet. So you found the book you linked helpful?
Lorien, Yes, a sangha! It made a huge difference for all the reasons you mentioned. Thank you for sharing your insight here.
I think the book could be great for people new to yoga or meditation. Russell Simmons gives accessible and down to earth directions which can have a very wide range of appeal. And he is the real deal — he clearly practices his preaching.
Thanks for this wise, helpful, and timely piece, Elysha. Love the idea of a group to help support commitment. Especially appreciate your reminder that the after effects of meditation are so beneficial. One new thing I’ve been trying recently is to do “quickie” meditations, e.g. a few minutes, generally centered on the breath, throughout my day. I have been finding this can help diffuse tension, ideally avoiding buildup of stress. Thanks for the inspiration, as always. Breath in, breath out :)….xoxo
ST, a quickie meditation sounds like an amazing way to integrate the practice into your daily life. Lately, I haven’t been able to sit for 10 or 15 mins so this quickie meditation could be a great way to reconnect to my body and breath. Thank you so much, my friend…and yes –breathe in, breathe out! xoxo