Meditation has been widely believed to be an effective way to combat stress and boost mental and emotional health. There are seven types of meditation, each designed to suit different mental and emotional states. For example, if you’re filled with anger, frustration, and resentment, the Loving-Kindness Meditation, a.k.a. Metta Meditation can help you overcome those negative feelings. Meanwhile, if you’re dealing with anxiety, then a Breath Awareness Meditation can help you.
Chronic pain, poor focus and memory, and depression are also included in the negativities meditation can help eliminate. If you’re new to the practice, starting out is simple, with free guiding apps available. But having powerful tools would help you concentrate better. That said, prepare a checklist and write down everything you’re going to need for perfect meditation.
1. A Quiet and Peaceful Place
You don’t need to have a vacant room dedicated solely for meditation if that’s not an option. Simply look for a spot where you can remain undisturbed. It can be a closet, an unused bedroom, or even your own bedroom. Use curtains or a privacy screen to hide from any distractions. Let everyone in the house know that you’re using a space for meditation so that they won’t bother you when you’re in it.
2. A Comfortable Seat
Since you’re going to be seated on the floor while meditating, comfort would be essential. Use cushions that would allow you to maintain a proper posture. There are a variety of meditation seats available in the market, so looking for the best seat should be easy.
3. Prayer Beads
Prayer beads, also known as mala beads, meditation beads, or mantra beads are traditionally used in prayer and meditation, particularly among the Hindus. It has 108 beds, with 1 standing for God, 0 for emptiness and humility, and 8 for infinity and timelessness. Beautiful handcrafted prayer beads can also be used as an everyday accessory.
To use prayer beads in meditation, hold them with your right hand between your index and middle fingers. Use your thumb to count each bead, beginning from the guru bead and chanting your mantra as you do so. Do this 108 times, reversing the direction after finishing a cycle.
5. Aromatherapy
Certain aromas help us relax better and soothe our stress and anxiety. Some can also revitalize us and restore our energies. Use candles, incense, or essential oils to diffuse aromas. A combination of lavender and rosemary is the ideal scent to promote relaxation and calmness.
Can I Still Meditate Without Those?
If you’re thinking that meditating would be impossible without the ideal setting and tools, you can’t be further from the truth. You can always find the time and a place for meditating, even if that’s in your car or workplace. It’s just highly recommended to meditate in quiet rooms with the right tools, but not imposed.
Since meditation is about being aware and focused, apply these to your regular activities, such as walking. If you’re going home from work, for example, just be aware of each step you’re making. Put all your attention to the moment at present.
You also normally walk fast when you’re commuting, but if you suddenly wish to meditate, slow down and find a more natural pace where your mind can be calmer. Focus and be aware of the sensations in your feet. Feel each rhythm, the texture of the ground you’re walking on, and the bumps beneath your soles. Being aware of these things may sound absurd, but it puts your mind to the present, which is the point of meditation.
These simple meditation techniques will improve the function of your brain in charge of focus, productivity, and resiliency. By being completely aware of your activities and surroundings, you train the skill of attention, which helps in boosting your work performance.