Meditation? More than just sitting around!

Meditation? Let's dive into the mystery of sitting in silence!

Meditation: a word that sounds like enlightenment to some, like a sleep aid to others or like the next step after “yoga for beginners”. No matter where you are on your journey, you're here, so let's fall into the lotus seat (or the couch) together and immerse ourselves in the world of meditation.

What is meditation actually?

Meditation is not just something that people do, sitting in caves on mountains and muttering “Om”. Rather, it is an ancient practice that is becoming increasingly important in today's fast-paced world and can be used as a tool for self-regulation. The goal? To calm your monkey mind (chaotic thoughts and judgmental mind) and finally find inner peace - or at least five minutes of peace;-)

What are the benefits?

Meditation is not only interesting for yogis or as a coaching tool, but also for scientists. Studies show that meditation reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and even increases gray matter in the brain (yes, your brain can practically go to the gym through meditation). There are many meditation techniques. They all aim to improve attention and focus, and help us stop wandering through our daily lives on autopilot. I have a very active mind. Sometimes I compare it to an adolescent Godzilla :-) So you can imagine that chaos is inevitable. And that's how it was before I started meditating eight years ago. Chaos in my mind and in my life. Today I largely decide what kind of movie is playing in my head.

But I can't sit still!

I understand that and that's exactly why we should do it and believe me, you're not alone. If you've ever tried to meditate, you know: There's suddenly a body part that itches, your mind is racing and the neighbors seem to be in the mood for techno music at that exact moment. But this is exactly where the magic of meditation lies. It's not about being a meditation master right away. It's about creating a space for yourself, letting go of all obligations, thoughts and ideas. To observe without judgment and without wanting to change. Just BE and give your brain and mind permission to relax. It works, believe me, it is a wonderful experience to perceive stillness and calmness of your own mind and then the magic happens.

How do you start?

1. make yourself comfortable: sit on your yoga mat, the floor or a chair.

2. breathe: concentrate on your breath. Feel how the air flows in and out. Follow your breath as attentively as possible. Observe your body and notice all sensations.

3. accept the chaos: thoughts come, that's normal. Smile at them, wave to them and let them move on - like clouds in the sky. Keep your attention on your breathing. It always serves as an anchor when your mind starts to wander.

4. keep at it: start with 2-5 minutes and increase slowly. Or stick to 5 minutes if that's enough. Stay curious, free from pressure to perform, because the exact opposite is the key to success. Consistency is the magic word here. You can do it!

Why should you give it a try?

Meditation is like a mini vacation for your mind - and it's completely free. It helps you to find a little more savasana (deep relaxation) in today's hectic world and to experience life more consciously. With regular practice, you become more mindful, can concentrate better, learn to direct your thoughts and thus experience more clarity and inner peace, and perhaps even experience for the first time that you are not your thoughts, feelings or body.

So, grab a candle, make yourself really comfortable and give it a try. If it doesn't work, hey, at least you tried! And who knows, maybe one day you'll become the guru of your own thoughts.

Om Shanti and have fun meditating!