Day 26 - Just Say OM

Do you think the only people who can successfully meditate are Buddhist monks who sit on mountaintops? Do you think that because you have trouble shutting off your thoughts that you are a failure when it comes to the practice of meditation? If either of these ideas ring true for you, I have good news. You can meditate and do so successfully.

According to the Buddhist Centre, meditation is a means of transforming the mind. It's about training your mind and developing the ability to redirect your thoughts. Many people use it as a way to reduce stress, increase focus and concentration, as a mood enhancer, to develop a positive outlook and self discipline.

Meditation doesn't require you to completely shut off your brain, as some believe. Following are some of the better known methods of meditation according to this article.

1. Metta meditation - the goal in this method is to cultivate an attitude of love and kindness toward everyone and everything, including one's enemies and sources of stress. This method is designed to promote compassion and love for others and for self.
2. Progressive relaxation - participants scan their bodies for areas holding tension. The goal is to determine where the tension is and allow it to release. One usually starts at the feet and works up to the top of the head. This method is good to use when trying to fall asleep.
3. Mindfulness meditation - this method encourages participants to remain present and in the moment without judgment of any experience. Mindfulness is often used in most forms of meditation. 
4. Breath awareness - this is another mindfulness practice. Participants focus mindfully on their breath and ignore thoughts as they enter the mind.
5. Kundalini yoga - this method mixes movement, deep breathing and mantras. This practice can help reduce pain and increase strength.
6. Zen meditation - this practice is often done under the guidance of a trained teacher because it includes specific postures and steps.
7. Transcendental meditation - during this practice, participants focus on a mantra and the goal is to rise above or transcend the person's current state of being.

No matter which method you choose, meditation done on a regular basis can have a significant positive impact on your health and well-being but any meditation is a benefit. Meditation is a skill, and like any skill, will take time to master. The key is patience with oneself and to practice without judgment. The effect will be a more peaceful and happier life.

As a health coach, I work with women who are facing serious health challenges like heart disease, metabolic syndrome and diabetes or who have been diagnosed as having a precursor to a serious health issue such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or high blood sugar. I help them make food and lifestyle changes so they can get healthy, live longer and enjoy a fuller, happier, more energetic life. If you would like to have a free consultation about the health challenges you have and the improvements you would like to see in your health, click here to schedule a no strings attached call.