3 minute read
Find peace one breath at a time: A guide to meditation
FIND PEACE, one breath at a time
Take a step back and savour life. STORY: CAITLYN GRANT
To master the art of breathwork, all you have to do is breathe. If only it were that simple, right? Holistic integrative health coach and certified breathwork facilitator, Nicole Cleave, talked Our Home through the ins and outs of breathwork and the five top tips to help you meditate better.
PRIORITISE NUMBER ONE
Of course, breathing is pretty much life or death, but it doesn't mean meditation has to be. Prepare by thinking of it as some treat-yourself-time. Don't be afraid to pull out that expensive face mask you've been putting off using, maybe even pour a glass of wine. This time is for you so go that bit extra, you deserve it.
CANCEL YOUR EXPECTATIONS
Forget the expectation of being a cross-legged, humming guru in the corner—pop on your favourite tune and get comfy. Sit, lie or even handstand, whatever feels right for you—pop on those headphones and let the music consume you. Could be AC/DC, could be Mariah Carey—it's a judgment-free zone. By focusing on the sweet melodies, you're letting your mind calm the body and vice versa.
TRUST YOURSELF
The beauty of meditation is that it looks different to every individual. If you can't get that racing mind to a steady pace, fear not. Rather than placing more pressure on yourself, try sitting outside and taking in the sounds, smells and feelings surrounding you.
SLOW DOWN
In this day and age, busy is a badge worn with too much pride. Allowing yourself five minutes in a day to sit back and relax is only a small ask in the scheme of things. Slow down and take the world in, become one with nature, let your freak flag fly. All those good things. Don't be afraid to take that step back, stress less and listen to what your body's telling you.
JUST START
If you find the whole process daunting, toss those togs on and dive straight into the deep end. Experiment with what works for you, whether it's sitting in silence or using guided recordings. Luckily, there's no right or wrong in the world of meditation.
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