My mind is like a four-way traffic stop. My thoughts fight for attention at the intersection with no regard for right-of-way laws (or any laws, for that matter). I’m only human, but finding clarity through the chaos would be nice. So, since meditation has long been used as a tool to quiet the mind, I figured I’d give it a try.
Casey Urban, a yoga teacher with 10 years of experience under her belt, told me over the phone that though she recommends beginners start with any form of meditation they’re “actually going to do,” whether that’s in a classroom or online, morning meditation is best. It’s when your mind is the most clear. “Don’t look at your phone, don’t have a long conversation with your partner, don’t turn on the TV,” she said. “I believe it helps the habit, too, if you just do it first thing in the morning no matter what.”
Rachel Brathen, yoga teacher, bestselling author, and creator of the popular Yoga Girl community, told me that she recommends beginners start with short meditation sessions. She too prefers meditating in the morning, but she says consistency is key. “Pick a time of the day that works for you and stick with it. As long as you do it consistently at the same time, it will be a lot easier.”
There’s a long list of physical and psychological benefits associated with meditation, Casey said. She’s right. Meditation has been linked to reduced anxiety, stress, and pain as well as reduced blood pressure and cholesterol. On top of that, Rachel spoke of meditation as an “anchor to ground you” during troubling times. So, I went for it.
Here Goes Nothing: What I Used
Being a newbie, I knew I wanted to use an app for guidance. Headspace was one I considered, but I found the British man on the other end to be anything but encouraging (sorry, Fred . . . if that’s your name). Instead, I used a 10-minute guided meditation at the beginning of Rachel’s podcast, From the Heart (number 35 on this list).
I started on a Thursday and ended on the following Thursday. For eight days straight, I listened to Rachel’s soothing voice discuss creating space between your thoughts and the importance of letting my breath be “what it already is.” She didn’t pressure me into inhaling, exhaling, or sitting a certain way, but she did challenge me to answer questions like, “What has life brought you today?”
During the work week, I got up at 5:45 a.m. to do the guided meditation, which starts at minute four of Rachel’s podcast and lasts until about minute 14. Was I tired? Of course. Was it worth it? Yes, and you’ll see why. As for the weekend, I meditated whenever I woke up; though, looking back, I should have been more consistent. (Would you have woken up at 5:45 a.m. on a Saturday?).
