Six tips to get started with meditation

October is Mental Health Month and this year’s theme is Tune In – and a great way to tune into yourself is through meditation. Meditation can help you feel less stressed and more focused- but it can feel daunting and a little strange if you haven’t done it before.

Jason the founder of Making Meditation Mainstream has shared his tips on how to get started. You’ll find there’s no right or wrong way – and taking the time for yourself can have benefits to all facets of your life. Making Meditation Mainstream run free meditation sessions every Saturday morning at 6.30am along the Northern Beaches from Avalon to Manly.

You can meditate anywhere and everywhere- inside, outside or at the beach. For beginners though, it is best to pick a convenient location. If you’re changing your location each day, this can turn into a barrier so try and choose somewhere convenient. For many people, that’s a room in your home, one where you know it’s quiet.

You should also pick a time that is going to be consistent for you. Plan and prepare in your mind when you’re going to meditate, rather than going into each day wondering how you’re going to squeeze it into your schedule. For many people, meditating first thing in the morning works well and helps get their day off on the right track.

Your mind should be as calm as possible so avoid coffee, tea and high sugar drinks before you meditate.

It’s also good to avoid your mobile phone and social media before meditation as this stimulates your mind. Wait to check your screen after your meditation if you can.  

Set up your meditation space so it feels calm. Some people like to add incense and candles but it’s completely up to you- whatever makes you feel relaxed.

Turn off your TV, pop your mobile phone to silent and use an alarm clock or the oven timer to keep track of the time. If you’re easily distracted, headphones can be a good way to eliminate noise.  

It can be a good idea to pop a sign on your door labelled ‘Meditation in session’ alerting family members or flats mates that you’re meditating. If you have pets, chances are they will try and climb all over you during meditation so pop them outside before your session.

When most people imagine meditation, they think of someone in the lotus position with crossed legs. But that is definitely not a requirement.

You can meditate in whatever position you like- you just need to be comfortable. A couch or chair are normally good options, just make sure you are sitting up straight or else you might drift off to sleep!

You will get distracted. We don’t live in a silent world so there will be noises that distract you. You can’t do anything about them but you can decide how you react to them. Acknowledge the noise, let it go and bring yourself back to your breath.

The same goes for your thoughts – they will enter your mind. Acknowledge the thought, let it go and return to your breath.

For more tips on meditation and to find a free session near you visit Making Meditation Mainstream.