10 Ways to Improve Your Meditation Habits this May
As we approach Mental Health Awareness Week this May, I thought it would be fitting to think about our meditation habits. Our life is full of habits; whether we deem them positive or negative is a personal feeling, but I’m quite confident in saying that if our meditation routine becomes a natural habit, then it’s certainly a positive one. In this article, we’ll explore 10 ways to help you build a positive meditation habit, so we can all gain the benefits of a more mindful life.
1. Set a Meditation Goal
Begin by setting a specific goal for your meditation practice this month. It could be anything from meditating for a certain amount of time each day to focusing on a specific meditation technique. Write your goal down and place it somewhere visible to keep yourself motivated and accountable.
2. Create a Meditation Space
Designate a space in your home for meditation. It should be free from distractions and comfortable enough to encourage relaxation. Add elements like soft lighting, a cushion or mat, and calming objects like plants to create a serene atmosphere.
3. Meditate at the Same Time Each Day
This one can be really tricky, but consistency is key when it comes to meditation. By meditating at the same time every day, you’ll create a routine that becomes an integral part of your daily life. This can make it easier to prioritize your practice and develop a strong meditation habit.
4. Take Time to Find a Routine Which Suits Your Lifestyle
Developing a meditation routine that benefits your lifestyle takes time and patience. Some people will find it easier to establish a morning routine, whereas others will find it easier to make time in the evening. There is no secret answer; it simply takes a bit of trial and error to find the routine that is most effective for you. For me personally, it’s a short breathing meditation in the morning and a slightly longer meditation in the evening.
5. Track Your Progress
Maintaining a meditation journal to track your progress can be an excellent motivator. Note down the duration of your sessions, the techniques you used, and any insights or challenges you experienced. Reflecting on your progress can inspire you to keep going and celebrate your achievements.
6. Join a Meditation Group or Class
Connecting with a group of like-minded individuals can provide support, encouragement, and motivation for your practice. As a quietnote member, you will have access to our members’ meditation; come along for guidance and support. At the same time, see if there is a local and in-person meditation group to share your experiences, and learn from others on a similar journey.
7. Make Meditation a Ritual
Establishing a ritual around your meditation practice can make it feel more meaningful and easier to maintain. Light a candle, burn some incense, or start each session with a prominent sound, like a bell to signal the beginning of your practice and help you transition into a meditative state.
8. Incorporate Mindfulness into Daily Activities
Meditation doesn’t have to be limited to a designated practice session. Incorporate mindfulness into your everyday activities by bringing your full attention to the present moment. Whether you’re walking, eating, or doing household chores, make an effort to be fully present and aware of your surroundings. This is what we call informal mindfulness.
9. Explore What We Have on offer at quietnote
We have a wide range of mindfulness through music meditations and exercises, from relaxation pieces, visualisations, and spoken guided meditations. If you feel music would benefit your routine, sign up as a member for free and start your journey today.
10. Be Patient and Kind to Yourself
Lastly, remember that developing a strong meditation practice takes time and patience. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that progress may be slow, but with consistency and dedication, you’ll begin to feel the many benefits of meditation.
Interested in what those benefits are? Click below to read our "Mindfulness through Music. The combined scientific benefits!" article.
Hopefully, these 10 points will give you food for thought when trying to improve your meditation habits this May. Remember that meditation is a lifelong journey, and it’s never too late to start or deepen your practice. If you have any thoughts or questions you would like to share, please do get in touch!
