Meditation and Yoga are often used interchangeably, but in reality, these practices are very different and independent in nature!

Meditation is a mental training and relaxation technique that aims to fine tune attention, facilitate calmness and awareness, or achieve a state of mental clarity. This is done through various practices, including but not limited to body scanning, breath awareness, and progressive relaxation.

Each meditation has a different goal and intended outcome benefit, but it is different in that it does not involve a high degree of movement like yoga does. That said, meditation is an integral part of Yoga, so that during the practice, both the body and the mind can be aligned; made possible by setting intentions and focusing on breath during a Yoga practice. 

The aim of meditation is to focus on the breath, object or sound, and be intentional in that focus for the duration of the meditation. This helps refocus the mind and restore order to otherwise hectic or racing thoughts, bringing a sense of calmness to those practicing. 

We challenge you to meditate for 5-10 minutes today, especially if you find your mind filled with racing thoughts and conflicting priorities – this can help you regain that  sense of balance and order, empowering you to move forward. 

three key tips to get you started on your journey to integrate meditation into your daily life

1. Set aside time every day – whether you are taking 3 or 30 minutes, be intentional with your time. Allocate a spot in your schedule to meditate, just like any other daily task you do, and stick to that time. Set a timer on your phone for the duration you would like to meditate, and don’t allow yourself to be distracted or do something else until that time is up. This sets a practice of respecting the scheduled time, and allows seamless integration of meditation into your daily routine.

2. Dedicate a space – find a place where you can be free from distractions. This can be a room in your house, a space in your yard, or even just an area in your room. Have that area be a comfortable, open place, where there is no clutter or distracting sounds, sights or smells. Keep that space clear and empty, so that anytime you want to meditate or take a break, it will be available to you.

3. Keep it interesting – try different practices until you find what you like, or what works for you. Maybe it involves a walk in nature, lying down with music, or sitting in silence. Focus on your thoughts, on your breath, or on something else. There is no right or wrong way to meditate, as long as you are intentional and focussed in your practice, so don’t be afraid to try new things!

♡