Meditation: Inner Calm for a Busy Mind
Meditation.
That word makes some breathe a sigh of relief and others hum with anxiety. Once begun, many people find a meditation practice to be an accessible tool not only to help bring a sense of clarity, refresh the mind, or instill calm, but also to maintain those important gains amongst a busy life. Yet, despite its increasing popularity as a modality for combatting stress in an “always on” world, many still hesitate to try it, worrying that meditation is too “woo woo” or “out there”; that it has to be tied to spirituality; or that they won’t be able to do it because they have a hard time sitting still and quieting a chattering mind.
At TGY, we believe that meditation, like the welcoming movement of yoga, is meant for everyone and offers profound benefits in our lives both on and off the mat.
Meditation, like making shapes or “Asana” we discussed last week, is one of the eight limbs of yoga, as described in the Yoga Sutras. Its purpose goes beyond relaxation (although that is an amazing benefit), helping us to develop greater awareness of our bodies and to foster a deep and meaningful connection with ourselves. It’s doing the work to find that quiet space within where we can let go of the noise of our daily lives and find a sense of inner peace.
That might sound daunting at first, but in our TGY yoga classes, meditation is a living and breathing part of our practice. It helps guide us toward a deeper understanding of our bodies and our movements. When our minds are calm and clear, it becomes easier to focus on our breath, our alignment, and our intention in each pose.
The benefits of meditation extend beyond the yoga studio, too. Regular meditation can help reduce stress, improve focus and concentration, enhance our emotional well-being and even improve our physical health. It can make us more resilient in the face of life’s challenges, more mindful in our interactions with others, and more present in each moment of our lives.
If you’re new to meditation, don’t be intimidated.
At first, it might feel uncomfortable or awkward. You might wiggle around. You might lose focus. Your brain might keep up a constant stream of babbling. That’s all okay! Like any new skill, it takes practice and patience, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Start with short, manageable sessions – even just a few minutes a day can make a difference. You can even get started from the comfort of your own home.
Here’s how to give it a try:
Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Try not to judge or control your thoughts. Instead, let them come and go, returning your focus to your breath whenever you notice your mind has wandered. It’s normal for your mind to wander – that’s what minds do! The practice of meditation is about noticing those wanderings and gently guiding your focus back to your breath, again and again. Remember, meditation isn’t about achieving a particular state or feeling. It’s about cultivating awareness, acceptance, and compassion for ourselves, just as we are.
When you feel ready, come try a meditation class at TGY. Or, give it a go as we use meditation in our yoga movement classes. Our instructors are all happy to help you learn more about meditation and how to create a practice that fits you and your individual needs. Incorporating meditation into your yoga practice and your daily life can enrich your experience and bring a sense of calm and clarity that permeates everything you do. It’s not just for yogis who have been practicing for years. It’s for everyone, and it’s never too late to start.