07-26-2021 09:29 AM - edited 07-26-2021 10:15 AM
Meditation is often seen as an ‘escape’ from reality, but the practice of Mindfulness Meditation is about bringing us closer to our thoughts and awareness, even if those thoughts are unpleasant in any given moment. Developing a practice isn’t necessarily the easiest thing to do, but can be a game changer to support your awareness of self.
What method(s) of meditation do you prefer? Silent, guided, with music, eating, walking?
07-26-2021 10:05 AM
Good reminder, @allison_s! Walking is definitely meditation for me these days. I try not to put on a podcast but rather music or nothing at all to stay present and give my brain a rest. It can be tempting to walk to "maximize" my walking by learning something new or calling a friend. Better to just walk and just be 🙂
07-29-2021 04:54 PM
Absolutely! I love walking meditation too. I will often allow myself to notice my environment and that becomes the practice itself. I wrote an article on this that you may enjoy reading 🙂
07-27-2021 05:38 AM
Walking with my dog, Honey, is 100% the go-to for me as well.
07-29-2021 04:55 PM
What a cute puppy name! Yes, walking seems to be enjoyed by many of you. 😁
07-27-2021 05:41 AM
Love walking too! I worked with an Ayurvedic specialist last year who recommended 20 mins of unplugged time in nature. No music or podcasts like @asparling1986 @wrote). Even just spending a minute looking at the petals of a flower or feeling the texture of a leaf. I think this counts as meditation! It definitely calms and connects me to myself.
07-29-2021 04:57 PM
Absolutely - that mindful moment of noticing the nature around us can really make a lasting difference. I love that you said this helps you connect you to yourself - we ARE nature - there is no separation. 🌿
07-27-2021 06:01 AM
I prefer guided while laying down or sitting upright. Though I love the apps, there’s something about a live (or zoom) guided meditation that really makes a difference for me.
07-27-2021 06:10 AM
I like guided too!
07-29-2021 04:58 PM
I agree, Margie! Practicing in community is also one of my favorite ways to meditate.
07-27-2021 06:23 AM
First guided meditation ive done is one of your videos @allison_s and I’m excited to try more!
07-29-2021 04:59 PM
Oh that's so sweet to hear, Casey. I look forward to practicing with you. 😊
07-27-2021 10:42 AM
I love recorded meditations to listen to. I do this first thing in the morning with my cup of tea. Looking forward to yours!
07-28-2021 12:00 PM
I feel like each form has their time and place and I kind of love having a toolbox. My fave way is always in nature. Trail running feels especially meditative to me. I know its not usually on the list but honestly it has given me the most profound and consistent source of connection to nature, myself and the wider universe than anything else.
07-29-2021 05:02 PM
Nature is a huge part of my own personal practice and I love how you've made trail running yours. As I say often, anything can be meditative, if we are brining our full awareness to each moment within that experience. I shared an article in my first comment response that you may also enjoy reading. 😊
07-30-2021 09:50 AM
Thank you - look forward to reading it!
07-28-2021 12:16 PM
You know, I probably need to brush up on my definition of "meditation." But I'm so glad you started this conversation. I think without knowing it, my meditation to me is when I cut all added technology and bustle out and just sit and BE... I love doing this by the water or in nature! Specifically out by the Port of Oakland overlooking the bay. Speaking of, I might need to do some today. Love this thread!
07-29-2021 05:02 PM
Thanks Leada, I hope you were able to make it out to the water. 🙂