You’ve probably heard thatmeditation can be beneficial, but how much do you actually know about it?

Many aspects of meditation are often misunderstood or misinterpreted.

Let’s debunk some of these myths so you might start reaping the rewards.

However, you don’t have to do that.

Meditation is effective as long as you merely minimize distracting thoughts.

Mindfulness meditationis perhaps the most accessible form of meditation.

It’s not about clearing the mind; it’s about focusing on one thing.

When the mind wanders, the meditation isn’t a failure.

Our brain is like a wayward puppy, out of control.

Catching it and putting it back to the object of focus is the mediation.

It can be as simple as focusing on your breath, which is my favoritetechnique for accessible meditation.

Count one when you inhale, two when you exhale, and keep going.

As you breathe, your mind will wander and other thoughts will come rushing to you.

If you are a religious person and meditation brings you closer to God, that’s great.

If you aren’t religious and meditation calms your mind, that’s great too.

The point of meditation, according to the Dalai Lama,is transformation of the mind.

It’s not religious.

But could you still exercise without those?

Meditation works the same way.

You actually don’t need anything but yourself.

Singular focus without distractions can come in many ways.

Some people liken driving to meditation, others say playing a musical instrument is a meditative experience for them.

you’re able to meditate in a short break at work, or just the elevator ride up.

Heck, eventhree rings of a phoneis enough for a quick mindfulness break.

That said, use any element that helps you meditate.

For example,Buddhifyis agreat app to learn meditationand it can be used anywhere, at any time.

Listening toNick Drakeworks like a charm for me.

I know people who swear byEckhart Tolle’smeditation visualization techniques.

Just don’t be dependent on it, and know that you could meditate even without those.

Get rid of the notion of being “good” at meditation and just start doing it.

It’s something to practice regularly, even if you might’t quantify the results.

Of course, regular practice makes you better at meditation.

In this case, “better” means you’ll be able to get into a meditative state faster.

Distractions will affect you less.

You’ll be able to dismiss thoughts more easily.

Think of it this way: calmness is a state of mind.

With practice, you will feel calm quicker than before and for a longer time.

But you won’t feel “calmer.”

The effects of mindfulness meditation last beyond the time you are practicing it, but how long is subjective.

To do so in the wisest way depends on how well you understand your neighbors' personality.

By raising self-awareness and calming your mind, you are better equipped to tackle the tough times.

Ourbeginner’s guide to meditationis a great place to start practicing mindfulness meditation.

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