Many of us are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to better ourselves. In today’s digitally-driven culture there are countless websites, TV shows, and apps which are geared toward promoting an overall healthier mind and body. While many of these outlets can prove helpful, you must stop to realize that one of the most beneficial practices is already “pre-installed” in you: Meditation. There have been many studies and publications which show how meditation can help a variety of things such as reducing stress and anxiety, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and experiencing a better sense of well-being
One of the best things about meditation is that it allows for flexibility. Meditating does not have to be a complicated or rigid process of committing yourself to one hour daily to benefit its rewards. Try taking a five minute break regularly at your computer. Simply close your eyes and take several deep breaths inward and outwardly counting slowly to five with each time. You can also say positive affirmations such as: “I am healthy, I am at peace, and I am centered”. As you breathe out, release negativity by saying: “I release my tension, I release the stress in my shoulders”. If a thought comes to mind about tasking or projects and deadlines, tell that thought to go away- only focus on your breathing and the calmness of where you are at that moment. You may even place your palms flat on your thighs or slip your shoes off and put your feet to the floor as a way to ground yourself.
Here are some suggestions based on your astrological sign too that could help to enhance your mediation practices:
Water signs: Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces– therefore water elements would help you. A decorative water fountain on your desk or nightstand is a great way to relax while at work or before bedtime. Taking a long soak while meditating in Epsom salt would help to relax further. Swimming, rafting, or a day at the beach help.
Fire signs: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. Burning incense or a candle will help to clear the mind and let stress go during meditation. Getting a hot stone massage or sitting quietly in a hot sauna are also great therapeutic/meditative outlets for fire signs.
Earth signs: Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn gain the most from nature. Gardening and grounding yourself while planting flowers, or walking barefoot on the grass or ground are very connective outlets. Crystals are made of earth so using amethyst, clear quartz, selenite, or golden calcite will be helpful to use in meditation.
Air signs: Gemini, Libra and Aquarius. These signs use their minds the most therefore making it either easiest to meditate or most difficult to meditate. Music is therapeutic for these signs so playing something calming is ideal to help with meditation. Air signs tend to be physically active and may find they can get into a calming state with walking or exercise.
