Given that meditation is all about relaxation, the last thing you want is to get overwhelmed by all the options and methodologies. So if you’re a meditation newbie, unsure of where to start, a guided meditation can be a fantastic entry into this calming stress reliever.
Why Try Guided Meditation?
Does the thought of sitting cross-legged in silence for several hours fill you with dread? I once embarked on an 11 day meditation retreat which required hours of daily sitting and silence. I lasted 2 days. Thankfully, I discovered guided meditation and now spend ten minutes a day lying on my warm bed, listening to a soothing voice transport me to serenity. There are no aching ankles or wandering thoughts about grocery shopping. That’s what guided mediation is all about: a calming voice guides you through a meditation sequence. This allows you to focus your thoughts without worrying about whether you’re meditating ‘properly’.
How Does Guided Meditation Work?
The style, length and focus of guided meditation depend on the audio you choose. If you have a smartphone, there are many apps you can download offering a variety of guided meditations. Just be aware that if you use your phone to play the meditation, you may be interrupted with phone calls and alerts. It’s easy to switch these off. Some guided meditations last a few minutes, while others can stretch for an hour. There are weight loss-focused meditation tracks, or general relaxation options. Some combine soft meditation tunes, while others use nature sounds or even contemporary eclectic styles. It may take you a while to find a track that suits your style.
Getting the Most out of Guided Meditation
Whatever guided meditation you choose, ensure you set aside time to fully participate. Choose a time and place where you won’t be distracted and let your loved ones know that you can’t be disturbed. Guided meditation works best when you’re alone and can properly unwind.
