After a good night's rest, perhaps you're not too worried about getting yourself in the right space to prepare for everything that the new day is going to bring. Yet, so it happens that often we find ourselves overwhelmed with emotional and mental stimulus by the time you're ready for lunch.
Meditation certainly doesn't have to be all about achieving enlightenment or powerful realizations to free yourself from the cycle of death. Meditation can be turned into a beautiful practice for balancing your emotional and mental well-being ahead of your busy day, and mornings are certainly great for doing your practice. You're rested, your mind is still warming up, and there's very little thought chatter going on -- wonderful space within yourself to cultivate such a state of being for the rest of the day.
The idea is what we can take that beautiful space of peace and serenity, and turn it into something that would be with us throughout the day, despite the challenges and experiences that we encounter. Starting your day with a mindfulness practice keeps your senses balanced, it helps you to find that tipping balance point that you can return to as the day progresses.
Simple Morning Meditation
This particular meditation will require at least 10 minutes of your time, your mindful attention, and also the attitude of zero expectations. Don't assume or expect any results, just know that what you're doing is helping you to stay more relaxed and centered.
- Start by sitting in a comfortable seated position, close your eyes and focus on your breath. Inhale, then exhale. Whenever a thought arises, acknowledge it and let it go. Keep your focus on the breath. Continue for 2-3 minutes.
- As you're entering your meditation and find yourself completely still, you can start a very easy visualization technique that's great for grounding yourself.
- Imagine that there are roots of a tree coming down from your knees, stemming all the way into the Earth, keep this visualization alive and feel how the roots are going from your knees, to your feet, into the Earth. As it goes in the Earth, see those roots go deeper and deeper into the ground, until they reach the very core of the planet.
- At this point, maintain the focus of your breath, and feel how these roots are helping you to feel more connected with the Earth itself, but also your surroundings and yourself as well.
- Remain in this peaceful and connected state for as long as you feel comfortable, 10 minutes is a great start, and you can build your way up from there.
This particular meditation has been recommended and used in live meditations by many experienced meditation practitioners, masters, and those who encourage visualization as a means for dealing with emotional and mental stress.
It might take you a day or two to actually notice any significant changes, but they will be very evident. If you set your intentions right -- I wish to remain grounded and balanced during the day -- then you will inevitably notice that a shift has happened.
Different types of breathing techniques -- such as pranayama -- are also helpful for setting yourself up for a mindful day ahead. You can learn these breathing techniques in a yoga class, or by watching an online video if that helps.