Is Meditation Overrated?

Is meditation overrated? 

The simple answer is no. But we know there's a lot to wrap your head around. 

Do I just sit and close my eyes? 

-in a word, yes.

What if thoughts arise?

-They will, keep going.

How long do I meditate for?

. -Start with a few minutes, then work up to however long you want. 

Which type of meditation?

-We suggest you start with a breath meditation, but you have options.

Should I listen to a guided meditation?

-It definitely wouldn't hurt. Here is one.

The list goes on. 

Meditation is defined as a practice of focusing the mind on a particular object, thought or activity. It is simply a way to come back to yourself, and to your breath. When we have moments of stress, anxiety, uncertainty, or fear, the emotion is often accompanied by physical sensations—heart pounding, racing thoughts, sweating.

When we have these seemingly intense or even subtle emotional and physical symptoms, we want relief, but we tend to look outside of ourselves: food, sleep, exercise, alcohol, or shopping.

But we rarely talk about turning to your breath, which is, the most powerful, inexpensive, and entirely instant tool you can use at any moment. 

There is no right or wrong way to meditate or breathe. Don't worry about thoughts or perfecting the craft. Just sit by yourself and breathe. 

If you're just getting started and want something to follow, try this:

Box Breathing

Breathe in for a count of 4 seconds

Hold your breath for 4 seconds 

Breathe out for a count of 4 seconds 

Hold your breath for 4 seconds 

Complete this cycle 5 times and feel your nervous system become calmer and quieter.

Now, we've shared all of this in the context of when you're feeling negative emotions, but meditation is a vast topic, with many practices from countless teachers. Let's start here with the belief that meditation and sitting with yourself and your breath are powerful tools to use daily to connect to yourself. 

It's like exercise — you don't go to the gym once and have the stamina and body you desire. You go multiple times a week, continue to build endurance and muscle, and over time, have more energy and feel the progress. 

It's the same with meditation. 

Start small and stay consistent. 

Breathe in, breathe out. 

Meet yourself where you are. Come back to you.