How Do You Meditate?
“Prayer is actually meditation. Prayer is a gift and in prayer and meditation we often find the answer to what we are looking for. Prayer is the gift and ability to be able to look into one's self in a private setting with just you and the Most High."
Huldah Dauid of HerRoyalRoots
The number one question I typically get about meditating is, how do you meditate? In my opinion, there is no right or wrong way to meditate because it’s unique to each person. In the same way, prayer is special to each person. Meditation allows me to center myself and regroup. It’s a form of stillness where I can slow down, check-in with myself, and connect with the Most High. Through meditation, I often receive clarity and spiritual insight about myself and my life. It can be a struggle when you first start meditating, and sometimes you’ll feel as if your thoughts are all over the place, but with practice and patience, you will master the art of control and discipline.
Getting Started
When you begin to meditate, think about the space you would like to create. It’s entirely up to you how simple or complex you would like everything to be. The main thing to remember is to be intentional and trust your intuition for your spiritual practices.
Sometimes I prefer it to be quiet while other times I like to play sounds of the ocean. Sometimes I use aromatherapy during my meditations, while other times, I don’t. It’s really up to you what you decide, and sometimes you may find yourself switching it up to fit your intent. Here are few things you can try.
Candles or Incense (try Lavender)
Anointing yourself with oil (ex: Frankincense)
Special garment or shawl
Music / Nature Sounds
Quietness
Position (i.e., Laying down, sitting with legs crossed)
When to Meditate? Once again no right or wrong time, but here are some suggestions:
Rising Meditation: Try to set some time when you wake up to meditate. This will be a great way to start your day.
Evening Meditation: Try to set some time before you go to sleep to meditate. This is a great way to release your day and connect back to the source before you rest.
Bath /Shower Meditation: Spend some time releasing and cleaning your mind while you cleanse your body.
Break /Lunch at Work: If possible, give 5-10 minutes to disconnect from your phone and thoughts of work.
Meditation Methods
Trying to focus during meditation can be challenging. If you expect your mind to be empty, let that idea go because that will set you up for a lot of frustration. Realistically speaking, we are almost always going to have a thought. The objective is to be more in control of our thoughts and navigate through them. There are many times when I sit to meditate and try to focus, and then I randomly start to think about what I want to eat lol. Don’t let that frustrate you. Here are some methods to try. Feel free to combine any of the methods listed below.
Breathing Technique: breathing can help you focus and slow down your thoughts as it relaxes your body—deep breaths with slow counts and fast-paced short breaths like fire breathing. Find a pattern you’re most comfortable with and give it a try.
Eye Open: Most people close their eyes during meditation and focus on something in their minds. Try meditating with your eyes open and focus on something that you can see, like staring at a spot on your wall. (Like when you’re caught daydreaming)
Question Method: Ask yourself, “What do I love about myself?” pause and pay attention to the thoughts that follow. Try not to toss the thoughts that come to your mind; instead, address each one with concern, even if it’s random. If you feel yourself getting off the path, just repeat the question.
Visualize: As you sit still, try to paint pictures of your thoughts. If you’re telling yourself you want to have a good day, start to picture what that day looks like for you.
Scripture: Meditating on scripture is a great way to focus. Repeat the scripture to yourself and seek answers on what it means. How does it apply to your life? Use the scripture to commune with the Most High and seek within.
There are many great methods and ways to meditate. Try to find what works for you and commit to adding more meditation/prayer to your routine.
I hope this post gave you some insight and encouragement about meditation. Let me know what you think. Share your thoughts below.
Peace, Love, Goldn.Light