Manage your Stress with Meditation

When we are faced with uncertainty, stressful situations and/or any changes to our everyday routines, it tends to have an impact on our minds, bodies and general sense of wellbeing. Such disruptions may affect the quality of our skin, hair, interrupt sleeping patterns, cause weight gain (or loss) and anxiety.

There are many reasons why stress has such an impact on our life. The good news is that we can overcome disruptions and come out of them as a stronger, more well-rounded and more resilient communities. One way we may achieve this, is by practising mindfulness and meditation. Meditation is simply a term for spending some time disconnecting from the chaos of life, attempting to quiet your mind and be in a calm state of awareness.

Meditation is considered a practice, like yoga or any other exercise regimen. It is also like strengthening a muscle: the more you do it, the stronger it may become. One of the best things about practising meditation, is that you can do it anywhere and at any time without any special equipment like bells, a yoga mat or blankets!

We’ve created a list of tips to help you get started:
• Before you start, try to remove yourself from all major distractions, such as phones, computer screens, television and loud noises. You don’t need a completely silent and secluded place to practice
• All you need is yourself! Try to sit or lie down in a comfortable place where you feel relaxed. You can keep your eyes open or close them. Just do what feels right for you.
• Start by focus on your breath. Feel the air coming in and leaving your body. Simply be aware of your breath and how it feels. Once you start to feel comfortable with meditation, you can include other breathing techniques.
• During your session, you may find yourself being distracted by thoughts or other random things popping into your head. When this happens, gently redirect your focus back to your breathing.
• There are different types of meditation: some that involve chanting or the use of affirmations. You don’t have to use these, if you don’t want to. If you want, you can choose one or two short words to focus on while meditating.