Meditation Made Easy

Every day, there seems to be some new article touting the health benefits of meditation: It reduces stress. It slows aging. It increases memory. Which is all true. But what if, like me, you find meditating to be about as easy as climbing Mt. Everest in 4″ heels? Honestly, any time that I try to clear my mind and just focus on my breath, stupid stuff starts hopping into my brain. Stuff like my grocery list, wondering what happened to a friend that I haven’t spoken to in over a decade or the CDs that I’ve been meaning to upload and organize for the last 2 years.  Bottom line, my distractions become too distracting.

So, what to do? Well, I was pretty psyched when I recently read that it only takes 16 seconds of meditation a day to change the way our brains work. 16 seconds. Hell, even I can meditate for 16 seconds. Here’s how along with some aides for tackling longer meditations if you’re game:

The 16 Second Meditation

Breathe in for a count of 4. Hold for 4. Exhale for 4. Pause for 4.

That’s it. Try to do this either at a certain time everyday such as right before bed or with a certain routine like brushing your teeth. It’ll make it a habit. And then just sit back and start reaping the benefits like feeling happier, less frazzled and more centered and present during your day.

Hypnotherpay Downloads

My friend Cynthia Morgan, a truly gifted hypnotherapist, has created a series of MP3 hypnotherapy downloads that tackle most of our major issues from anxiety to overeating to depression to money issues. Each lasts about 20-30 minutes and they’re a fantastic way to focus the brain, reaping the many benefits of meditation, while also addressing a specific problem area. Honestly, these downloads are life altering. Especially at only a $1.99 each. You won’t believe how relaxed you’ll feel after listening to one. Truly fantastic.

The Thync

The Thync module looks a little futuristic and is going to cost more than my other options, but I’ve found it to be incredibly effective. It’s basically an electronic device that attaches to the corner of your forehead with a disposable strip and works by stimulating our brain’s adrenaline system to produce either a state of calm or energy. It’s basically an at-home biofeedback machine. Again, each session runs about 15-20 minutes, and although the calm “vibes” are more traditionally meditative, both the calm and energy programs (there are about 5 of each to choose from) will make you feel relaxed, focused and more centered.

If improving your health isn’t enough of a motivator to get you meditating regularly, daily meditation is going to improve your skin quality and reduce the inflammation that can cause puffy eyes and redness.  Which will make you look younger. Now that’s what I call motivating.