We’d all like to think we can excel at anything we put our mind to, but let’s face it, meditation scares the heck out of people, especially men. In the modern world where people are connected 24/7, it seems truly impossible to quiet down long enough to make any lasting meaning out of meditation. But the benefits of meditation go far beyond a few quiet minutes a day, affecting our health, professional focus, and creativity. Being able to master meditation will have positive results in so many facets of our lives. There are several tried and true tricks that will help you to relax your mind and gain the benefits of meditation.
1. Use an app
One thing we all tend to have handy is our cell phone. Use that proximity to your advantage by downloading a meditation app on your phone. A few popular ones with men include Headspace, Calm, and Aura.
2. Use a mantra
A mantra is a short phrase or sentence that you repeat while meditating. Mantras build self-confidence and strength in the person who is meditating, but they also focus your mind in order to get rid of common distractions.
3. Do a walking meditation
When all else fails and you just simply cannot sit down, consider a walking meditation to get your jitters out while you practice your focus and breathing. Walking meditation promotes mindfulness, and while walking you are also helping your body by improving blood circulation.
4. Practice breathing exercises
Speaking of breathing, it sounds redundant to work on your breathing, since we do it all day every day without even thinking about it. But the more you use the meditative breathing techniques, the better you will get at them. Breath control helps control anxiety, relieve stress, and keeps you focused.
Just like anything else, with a little practice you can quiet your brain. The benefits of meditation are immense, and breathing mindfully or practicing a mantra will definitely help you gain those benefits.
