Meditation can seem one of those big subjects that throws up a lot of questions. Yoga and meditation teacher, Jennie Castle aims to uncomplicate matters a little
Am I doing it right? Where do I start? Can anyone do it? The most common obstacle I hear is “My brain is too busy; meditation is not for me.”
It’s a classic case of us humans complicating something that in essence is meant to be simple.
By all means, I am no expert nor will I profess to be some enlightened being with all the answers, but what I can vouch for is that meditation is a practice that hugely adds value to my life and I know I’m not the only one.
Pick up any glossy mag and there are well-being pages oozing with the benefits of this practice. So why can it seem rather like our “five a day;” we know it’s good for us, but do we find it easy and do it?
My biggest tip would be to not overcomplicate this beautifully simple practice. Here are some gems that work for me:
Brain dump
A great piece of advice I was given was to brain dump before settling down to meditate. And by saying that I mean literally throw down your to-do’s, any niggles, things you need to remember and give them to a page of paper. Take one piece of A4 or even two and help clear your head before you sit.
Avoid caffeine or alcohol prior to practice
How can you train a monkey’s mind if you’ve fed the monkey a caffeine or booze trip? Ease into a herbal tea if you like something to accompany your practice and instead give your mind a chance to find peace.
Practice anywhere
Don’t wait for the conditions to feel perfect. It’s rare they ever will be. Who lives in a white zen space free of distraction? I know for me my normal environment involves children, a dog, a husband (in no particular order!), and a certain degree of chaos. Practicing around Lego has been for years my reality so don’t let the situation be a barrier.
Anytime is a good time
Morning sets your day, midday resets you and evening clears your day, so there’s really no right or wrong. Find what works for you and reap those benefits.
And finally, drift happens
In fact, it happens ALL the time. This doesn’t mean you’re a poor meditator or your brain isn’t wired for meditation. The fact that you recognise that you’re mentally drifting shows that you’re becoming aware of your thoughts. See yourself in the saddle with the reins in your hand, if the horse/mind wants to gallop, gently hold on to the reins and steer it back.
Intention is everything. Meditation is a practice not a performance and as with anything you practice, you will reap the rewards.
If you want to get in touch I will happily share what has helped me. May you enjoy tuning in and finding some peace that your rightfully deserve.
Love your practice, Jennie x
