Meditation for beginners: a permission slip for baby steps

In our fast-paced world, finding the time and space for meditation and self-help practices can seem like an insurmountable challenge.

The thought of sitting down, closing our eyes, and focusing on our breath can even provoke feelings of unease and anxiety. But what if there was another way? What if we could tap into the benefits of stillness and mindfulness while going about our daily routines?

As an anxiety specialist, allow me to introduce a more accessible approach to incorporating mindfulness into your life.

Yes, the advantages of reaching a state of stillness and 'emptiness' are undeniable. Yes, by disengaging from the constant stream of thoughts and mental activity, we can experience a profound sense of calm and inner peace.

However, instead of attempting to dive headfirst into deep, eyes-closed meditation practices, let us consider a more gradual path to mindfulness.

If even the idea of stopping, sitting down and closing your eyes makes you feel uneasy please know that you are allowed to engage in various activities while immersing yourself in relaxation, meditation, hypnosis, or other similar audio content.

You are allowed to walk around your home, attending to household chores, washing dishes, or folding laundry while simultaneously indulging in positive affirmations and deep transformation playing in the background. By plugging in your headphones and tucking your phone into your pocket, you can transform even the most mundane moments into mini mindfulness retreats.

No longer do you need to wait until the perfect moment arises, until all tasks are complete, or until the house is finally quiet.

It is time to prioritise your own well-being without delay. Rather than relegating self-care to the bottom of an endless to-do list, grant yourself permission to nourish your mind and spirit in the midst of daily responsibilities. You deserve to experience the benefits of mindfulness right here, right now.

Consider this your personal homework assignment, but not in the traditional sense. Your task is not merely to 'relax' or 'transform,' but to observe and explore the profound effects of mindfulness practices while engaging in your everyday routine.

As you listen to relaxation, positive affirmation or hypnosis content, take a moment to reflect on the sensations and emotions that arise within you.

Observe how these practices impact your state of mind and well-being, even amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Don't let the traditional expectations of meditation or relaxation techniques deter you.

You need not deny yourself the opportunity to engage with nervous system healing materials simply because they often involve sitting, lying down, or closing your eyes.

There is always an underlying reason behind your resistance, whether it stems from past traumas, racing thoughts, or societal pressures to constantly hurry. It is time to honour and love yourself by creating a safe space that allows for gradual progress and self-discovery.

Grant yourself the freedom to start with baby steps.

You don't have to plunge into the deep end right from the beginning. Embrace a non-traditional approach that suits your unique circumstances and preferences. By giving yourself the permission to embark on this journey at your own pace, you open the door to a world of mindfulness and self-empowerment.

Remember, you hold the key to unlocking the power of mindfulness in your everyday life. It's time to embrace this transformative practice and integrate it seamlessly into your world, one small step at a time.

If you're grappling with anxiety and feeling frustrated by the lack of effective tips or tricks you've found online, it's important to recognise that you don't have to expect yourself to magically heal alone. Remember, help is available. Allow me to support you on your anxiety-healing journey. Take the first step today by booking a free 30-minute consultation through my profile.