We all lead busy lives filled with packed schedules, and demanding jobs. Finding time to meditate can seem challenging and often gets pushed down the priority list. For many, meditation conjures up images of sitting cross-legged with eyes closed for long periods. However, everyone can find time to meditate. If you can watch Netflix, scroll through your phone, or brush your teeth, you have time to meditate.
Ironically, the busier you are, the more you need meditation. This may seem counterintuitive until you start reaping meditation benefits like increased creativity, focus, and energy.
The best place to start is to let go of any preconceived notions surrounding meditation. Do away with ideas of meditation “must” or “should” be a certain way. Make it your own. The essence of meditating is connecting with your inner self; tapping into your inner wisdom.
Here are 5 easy forms of meditation to practice even with a busy schedule.
1. Meditate while you wait.
We all spend time waiting- whether for an elevator, in traffic, for a lagging network connection, or for a perpetually late friend.
These moments are a great window to meditate. Instead of scrolling on your phone, take several deep breaths, and begin to notice your surroundings.
Observe your thoughts without judgment, and go the extra mile to extend compassion by sending good thoughts to people around you, such as, “I hope you have a good day’ or “May you succeed in your endeavours”. This practice will leave you feeling more wholesome inside.
2. Embrace technology.
In this day and age, since technology is a constant in our lives, use it to your advantage. The sentiment is, that since we are always on our phones, we might as well make it count. All you need is a meditation app and some headphones (optional) and you are set. Many apps are beginner-friendly, and offer guided meditation. We recommend meditation apps such as Insight Timer, FitOn, and a Kenyan meditation app, Hakuna. You can also find meditation podcasts, wherever you get your podcasts, and YouTube channels like Yoga with Adrienne for her beginner-friendly videos.
Explore different methods to find what works best for you. It is important to note that an app can only guide you, but one must be open and willing to access the stillness within.
3. Start early in the morning
The best time to meditate is first thing in the morning. Before reaching for your phone or diving into your mental to-do list, set the intention to meditate. Don’t overthink it–just meditate for however long you have. You can also set some intentions for the day and visualize a successful outcome. Consider setting an alarm a little earlier to incorporate this life-changing habit into your routine.
4. Meditate on your commute:
This is where those meditation apps, podcasts, and headphones come in handy. Meditation on your way to work is a good way to relax before starting your work day. Remember to pause and take deep breaths. If you drive to work, spend a few minutes in your car before going in to centre yourself for the day.
5. Attend meditation retreats.
Just as we set aside time for vacations and getaways, why not set out to attend a wellness retreat? Switch curate meditation retreats and experiences for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts who need a break from their busy schedules, and are looking to connect with their inner selves. Our retreats are held at scenic locations, while the sessions are led by certified experts. Stay tuned for any upcoming events, we have something exciting in store. See you soon!
