In our fast-paced world, where life’s demands often seem relentless, meditation has emerged as a lifeline to mental clarity and emotional balance. It helps us slow down, brings our thoughts to a halt and helps us savour the bliss of mindfulness. However, choosing the right time of day to meditate and understanding the ideal duration is pivotal in reaping the full benefits of this ancient practice. Let us tell you about the benefits of morning meditation.
Benefits of morning meditation
Morning meditation has been praised for centuries, and for good reason. It offers several unique advantages that can set the tone for the rest of your day.
1. Peaceful start to the day
“Mornings are generally quieter, providing a serene environment that is conducive to meditation. It’s a time when the world is waking up, and you can harness the stillness for introspection,” says the expert. Morning meditation helps in bringing the mind to a centre, helps manage stress and helps in overall well-being. It also lays the foundation for bringing a sense of calm and balance for the day ahead.
2. Improved focus
Most tasks during the day, whether it is running errands or acing challenges at the workplace or home require you to don several hats at the same time. By meditating in the morning, you sharpen your focus and concentration, making it easier to tackle the day’s tasks with a clear mind.
3. Stress reduction
Stress has become a part of our daily life and with technology and so much information, it has become hard to remain calm. “Morning meditation curbs down levels of stress and anxiety, making it seamless to deal with challenges with a calm demeanour,” says Kaur.
4. Consistency
“Establishing a morning meditation routine can be easier to stick to because there are fewer external distractions,” suggests the expert. Morning is the best time to kickstart building good habits, and mediation is one of them.
How long should you meditate?
The ideal duration for meditation is different for every person. It’s more about the quality of your practice than the quantity of time spent. Here are some guidelines:
1. Beginners
Start with 5-10 minutes. You can then slowly increase the duration as you become adept with the practice.
2. Regular practitioners
Aim for 20-30 minutes. This provides ample time to dive deep into your meditation and experience its benefits.
3. Advanced meditators
You can meditate for 45 minutes to an hour or more. Advanced practitioners often find longer sessions highly rewarding.
Tips to start your meditation practice
If you’re new to meditation, embarking on this journey can seem intimidating. Here are some valuable tips to help you start your meditation practice given by the expert.
1. Create a dedicated space
Find a quiet, clutter-free spot in your home for meditation. This will serve as your sanctuary for inner peace.
2. Consistency is key
Establish a regular schedule. Whether it’s morning, noon, or night, consistency is vital for the benefits of meditation to manifest.
3. Guided meditation
Begin with guided meditations. Many apps and online resources are offering guided sessions to help you get started.
4. Focus on your breath
Bring your concentration on your breath as it flows in and out. This is a simple and effective way to start your meditation.
5. Be patient
Understand that meditation is a form of skill and practice that takes time to develop. Don’t be discouraged by a wandering mind; gently guide your focus back to your breath or chosen point of concentration.
6. Seek support
Consider joining a meditation group or connecting with a meditation teacher. You can get access the right guidance, support, and a sense of community.
Meditation is a personal journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you choose the tranquillity of the morning, the serenity of the evening, or any time in between, the key is to make it a regular part of your life. As you delve deeper into your practice, you’ll uncover the multitude of benefits it has to offer, from reduced stress to enhanced self-awareness.
