It also helps relax you. Stretching releases dopamine, a hormone that helps you feel happier and positive. By stretching out your body prior to meditation, you are actually preparing your brain for positivity.
Tip # 3: Try Several Positions
Now that you’ ve found a time and a place to meditate, and you’ ve stretched and prepared your body, it’ s time to settle into a comfortable meditative position.
There are several ways in which you can position yourself for meditation, and there is no right or wrong posture to assume.
Many people enjoy sitting cross-legged because it helps provide a stable and comfortable base. We sit on the floor with our legs crossed naturally, anyway, so it’ s not a difficult posture to assume and hold for a long period of time.
Some people choose to squat and balance on their heels, some choose to lie down, and some choose to sit on their knees.
No matter what, your spine should be straight, your chin slightly tucked in, and your shoulders held back.
If sitting on the floor or a carpet is uncomfortable for you, find a large pillow to sit on. Many people even purchase meditation pillows for this exact purpose.
Try as many positions as you need to find out what makes you feel the most comfortable. You’ re going to be sitting still for a little while, so comfort is key. Meditation is meant to relieve pain and stress, not cause it!
Adjust yourself as needed until you feel you’ ve found your favorite position in which to meditate. Now you can begin!
Tip # 4: Focus on Your Breath
Once you’ ve found your ideal meditative posture, sit for a moment just breathing in and breathing out. Allow yourself to find an easy rhythm for your breathing. Now focus on it.
In order to quiet your mind and release it from external thoughts and stresses, the easiest thing you can do is focus on something else. Instead of focusing on a television show or your smart phone, sit quietly, and focus on your breath.