When you read or hear the word “meditation,” what comes to mind? Master yogis and orange-robed monks? Photos of beautiful people sitting cross-legged in “the pose”?
Here’s what I have to say about it: Meditation is your shortest path to creating the most joyful, abundant, meaningful life you can imagine. And when I say shortest path, I mean it. Meditation is a shortcut through life’s confusion and chaos.
“But I don’t want to spend hours every day, sitting with my legs crossed, trying to reach nirvana,” you say.
No problem. Ten minutes, twice a day can radically change your life—physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.
Think about how much time you devote daily to bathing, styling your hair, washing the dishes, etc. Surely you can set aside 10 minutes at the beginning and end of each day as a way to transform your life.
People who practice meditation regularly report many of the same benefits:
- Reduced stress & increased relaxation
- Better quality of sleep
- Improved health & well being
- More frequent experiences of helpful synchronicities
- Improved relationships
- Increased creative inspiration
- Insights about life, the universe & everything
- Greater ability to cope with life’s challenges
- Peace of mind
Can it really be that powerful? Yes.
Now, if you enjoy sitting in the lotus position, there’s no reason to stop doing what you enjoy. However, for many people, sitting up in a high-backed chair with feet flat on the floor is a comfortable position for practicing meditation. In this position, it’s easy to breathe but not so easy to fall asleep.
Try it. Meditation can be as simple as closing your eyes, breathing deeply and slowly, and focusing your attention on your breath for five to ten minutes. As thoughts come to the surface of your awareness, gently let them go and return your focus to the rhythm of your inhalation and exhalation. Breathe and simply allow your body and mind to relax.
As a wise master once told me, the only bad meditation is the one you don’t do. So, don’t judge yourself or your meditation. Just do it, and trust that the time spent meditating was a worthwhile investment in your well-being.
Ten minutes, twice a day. And no leg crossing required.
David, When I met you back in 2005 as MC for the cruise we were on, I thought then that you were one of the greatest.
Mahalo, Lionel!
Aloha, David!
Mahalo nui for your loving, clear messages. They are simplicity in words. Mahalo especially for this one about the ease and simplicity of meditation. Good job
I have recently been meditating regularly (finally!) in the mornings before work for 10 or 15 minutes and then doing a short writing about what comes to me. What a blessed way to start my day, with clarity and connection to Spirit! It truly IS as simple and easy as you shared. I am living every day much more aware of what I truly am–an Angel in Human costume, doing a wonderful dance on the stage of Earth.
Bless you for sharing your Light on our journeys!
Holly
And bless you, Holly. I pray our physical paths cross again one day. I’ve enjoyed the light you share on Facebook. Keep shining, my friend!