In our busy world, taking the time to breathe right can feel like a luxury rather than a necessity. Humans need time to recoup and regain focus, and that’s why we turn to meditation. Benefits of meditation are in abundance – it is very often a great way to focus on your breathwork – and as an added bonus, it even gives you a workout when paired with yoga poses!
The feeling of ease, hushed serenity, and optimum relaxation that blankets a communal yoga studio brings a sense of calm and control. The soothing atmosphere, the gentle music, and the comfortable environment all come together to help to clear your mind so you can truly focus on getting your meditation benefits in. This is exactly the ambiance we seek to recreate at home, to better serve our recharging meditation sessions!
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Consider Your Personal Needs
What are your personal goals when it comes to yoga and meditation? Meditation is a practice that has been used by different cultures and religions for centuries and has recently become popular as a way to improve mental health. Meditation helps us focus our minds, clear our thoughts, and relax the body. Commonly-known meditation benefits include its ability to reduce stress levels, improve moods, increase concentration skills, and boost overall productivity.
Get The Right Equipment To Optimise Meditation Benefits
It goes without saying that the right equipment is key to success. A good yoga studio has a variety of props available for all levels of difficulty, so you can better cater your sessions to your needs of the day. Investing in a well-considered yoga space allows you to relax, meditate, or get in a good workout, which will keep you in optimum health both physically and mentally.
When it comes to choosing your equipment, you’ll want to opt for quality over price – if your space is going to see much use, it would make more sense to buy a better quality product at the very beginning, as opposed to dealing with degeneration and replacements on a regular basis. You’ll also do your part to keep your carbon footprint low!
Fragrances For Focus
Don’t forget to up the ante on comfort during your meditation sessions! Aromatherapy is a popular way to improve your sessions, with essential oils serving to improve focus and concentration with their antidepressant and anxiolytic properties.
When it comes to using essential oils for optimum meditation benefits, there are several things you should keep in mind. First, it is highly imperative that you choose the right scent as per your personal preference. Some people prefer floral scents (lavender is a particular favourite!) while others prefer citrusy scents like lemon or orange. Secondly, you will want to experiment with different diffuser types and settings to find the one that works best for you.
Third, and most importantly: the act of using aromatherapy before your meditation session to get started. Simply add a few drops of oil into your diffuser before sinking down into relaxation mode! And finally, remember that mediation is about zoning out mentally; don’t try too hard if something doesn’t feel comfortable or natural at first. With some practice and experimentation, you’ll be meditating your way to personal enlightenment, relaxation, and awareness!
All That Glitters Is Crystals
Beyond aromatherapy, there is also growing interest in using crystals for meditation. Some popular crystals that are often used for this purpose include turquoise, lapis lazuli, amethyst, and quartz. These minerals have their own unique properties that can be helpful when it comes to meditation and mindfulness.
Here are some tips on how to use them most effectively:
- Prepare your crystal before you start meditating by cleansing it. You can do this by submerging your crystals in rice, bathing them in moonlight, smudging with sage, or with a singing bowl.
- Set an intention before beginning your practice. Ask the crystal to help you connect with your inner wisdom, peace, and calmness; ask it to help you overcome any obstacles standing in your way, or simply request guidance on specific meditation practices you want to learn more about.
- Stay focused during your session to optimise your meditation benefits. You can do this by picturing yourself surrounded by the positive energy of the crystal while keeping all negative thoughts outside of focus.
Prepare A Post-Meditation Pampering Session
Indulging in a cooling-down period once you’ve successfully completed your meditation session can be incredibly beneficial. This gives your body and mind time to return to the present, allowing you to ground and centre yourself in preparation for the rest of your day, or night. A hot cup of herbal tea can serve to further calm your mind, and a soothing balm will help to loosen any tense knots in your muscles. Be sure to have a basket of goodies on hand for your post-meditation pampering session, and don’t forget to finish up with a long hot bath to cleanse away the chaos of the world!
Have you ever engaged in meditation? Let us know in the comments below, and share your personal routines and insights on the practice! Don’t forget to follow us on our social channels for more fun content, tips, and stories on your favourite local brands!
