As we dive into autumn, the crisp air and colorful leaves bring a sense of coziness and renewal. But let's be real – fall also ushers in shorter days and increasingly packed schedules. From workouts to work days, school assignments to social commitments, our daily routines can become overwhelmingly busy. The constant juggling of responsibilities often leaves us feeling stressed and overtired, struggling to keep up with the demands of the season.
For me, there are days when managing it all seems nearly impossible. The to-do list grows longer, the daylight hours shorter, and sometimes, the only solution is to hit the reset button – quite literally – in my brain. My personal magic wand for regaining balance? Meditation. 🧘♀️
Why meditation? Well, it’s like a chill pill, minus the pill. Even a few minutes of meditation can significantly reduce stress levels, allowing you to approach your busy day with a calmer and more focused mindset. The practice helps create a sense of inner peace and balance, which is particularly valuable during hectic times.
You might be wondering how to meditate effectively in a busy household or if shutting your eyes for a few minutes is truly beneficial. Truth is, even brief periods of regular meditation can have significant positive impacts on your daily life. Regular meditation practice improves concentration, helping you tackle your growing to-do list more efficiently. And as the days shorten, quality sleep becomes crucial, and meditation can quiet the mind, leading to more restful nights. No more lying awake wondering if you remembered to buy pumpkin spice creamer!
Meditation helps regulate emotions during fall's changes, providing balance and self-awareness. It allows you to understand your needs and priorities better, making it easier to navigate busy seasons without feeling like a leaf caught in a windstorm. Even a short daily session can significantly improve your mental clarity and overall well-being.
How to meditate? Well, it’s really quite simple.
But first, let’s discuss the importance of comfort when settling in for a meditation session. Personally, I've found my go-to piece: the Weekend Reset Pullover by RBX. This thing is like a hug in clothing form. The relaxed fit means you can breathe deeply without feeling like you're in a straitjacket, and the longer back means there are no drafts on your lower back when you're sitting cross-legged.
Now, onto meditating:
- Sit down either on the ground or in another comfortable position. If you're on the floor, you might want to use a cushion to support your lower back.
- Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to settle in. I look at this as “my time”— these moments are mine, and I tell my brain it's okay to stop working for a bit.
- Focus on the breath. Notice the sensation of air moving in and out of your body.
- When your mind wanders (and it will), gently bring your attention back to your breath without judgment. There are some meditation techniques where you don’t actually have to push away the thoughts. I personally just like to let my brain do its thing, but I still come back to my breath.
- Start with just 5 minutes a day and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice.
As with anything, consistency is key. There's no "perfect" way to meditate. With regular practice, you'll find it easier to tap into that sense of calm, even amidst the autumn hustle and bustle.
While meditation is a great tool for fall wellness, it works best as part of a balanced approach. Pair it with good sleep, staying hydrated, and eating well for some great results. Remember, life is meant to be enjoyed, not just rushed through. If you miss a day (or a week) of meditation or a workout, don't even sweat it – go easy on yourself, and pick back up when you’re ready.
The beauty of meditation lies in its ability to remind us to appreciate life's moments. Whether through meditation, a cozy outfit, or both, find what helps you get there. Your mind (and eventually your to-do list) will thank you 🍁
