Meditation is a bit of a trendy word these days…we have all heard of it…but what exactly is meditation?

There are many different forms and interpretations of meditation. To us, it is simply focusing on the present moment. Or being aware – truly aware of the present moment.

What meditation is not: focusing on, or allowing our minds to constantly pull us into the past or future. It is being present. This is very simple, but simple does not mean easy! Most of us do not realize how busy, and non-stop our minds and thoughts really are.

Many of us are never in the present moment. When you first begin your mediation practice, it may seem almost impossible to keep your mind quiet. There is no doubt that while practicing meditation your mind will continuously pull you out of the present, and into the past or future. Thoughts and images of your weekend plans, what you need to pick up at the store, the argument you had yesterday with a co-worker...anything and everything will often "come to mind". When this happens, and when you become aware it has happened, acknowledge the thought, then let it go. Do not label or judge the thought, and certainly do not become angry with yourself. Just let it go, and allow yourself to come back to the present.

Practicing meditation is just that, practice. The more you practice the better at it you will become. Or maybe more appropriately said, you will become more aware, more focused on the present moment, and you will have longer gaps in the continuous mind chatter that most of us experience throughout the day. 

Environment: Find a quiet, relaxing space to practice your meditation. This can be a park, your bedroom, or even in your parked car on your lunch break.

Posture: Many recommend to sit while meditating – either on a chair, or on the floor. Keep your head and spine straight. This will help keep you focused on the present. If sitting on the floor your back, hip, knee or whatever might become stiff or sore. If this happens you can actually use this to your advantage during your meditation practice, by focusing your attention on the sensation you feel. Try not judge or label the sensation as "pain" or "bad". Just let it be – maybe even try bringing some compassion to the area or sensation. Try practicing meditating while laying down as well. Before bedtime is a perfect time to do this. There is never a wrong way or time to relax, and be present.

Breath: Focusing on your breath is very helpful when practicing meditation. You can focus on the sensation of the air moving in and out of you, the sensation in your nostrils, the feeling of your ribs expanding and contracting - even the sound of the air moving in and out of you. No need to regulate your breath, let it be natural.

Eyes: Some people prefer having their eyes closed, others eyes open. Experiment with both as what you prefer might change from session to session. When the eyes are closed I find it helpful to focus on the spot right between the eyes. When practicing with the eyes open, focus on one specific object, then relax your eye lids and just let your vision go "fuzzy".

Listen: Listening is great for mediation. Listen to your breath. Listen to the birds outside. Whatever is around you, just listen. Try to not label or judge the sounds you hear, just listen and let them be. 

Recent research has actually shown that mediation can increase lifespan by repairing our DNA! We find it fascinating that modern science is validating more and more ancient practices.  Meditating can benefit us by: improving our sleep, focus, memory and creativity, while lowering blood pressure, muscle tension, pain, stress and anxiety. Best of all, you can do it for free! 

If you want to enhance your meditation practice and experience, experiment with therapeutic grade essential oils – they can be very helpful. Essential oils can directly influence our mindset and mood via their powerful effects on our neurotransmitters and hormones, according to research. Most of us can use all the help we can get with quieting our busy minds a bit.

There is no right or wrong way to use your oils for meditation. Experiment to find what works best for you. Apply topically over your wrists, brain stem, temples and or the bottom of the feet - then cup your hands over your nose and breathe deeply. We also like to set our diffuser near by, so we can deeply breathe in the oils during the entire practice. 

Inhaling certain essential oils such as Frankincense, Lavender and Balsam Fir have been shown to increase alpha and theta brain waves. These are the brain waves associated with mediation, relaxation and sleep. On the other hand, the popular essential oil of peppermint is associated with increasing beta brain waves, these are the brain waves more associated with being awake, alert, thinking and studying. Having said this, peppermint may be more appropriate for studying and exercise than meditation, 

Experiment and see what works best for you, this is part of the fun. Ylang ylang, lavender, lemon and bergamot are always great for relaxation as they are associated with lowering stress, anxiety, depression and stress hormones like cortisol. A handful of our other favorites include: myrrh, lavender, sandalwood, cedarwood, black and blue spruce. Some of our favorite Young Living blends for meditation include: Grounding, Gratitude, Sacred Mountain and Stressaway.

You own your mind. Your mind does not own you. The mind just needs to be reminded of this from time to time. Best of luck and remember, this is a practice. 

Thank you for reading!

#oilyevanstribe

Written by Will Evans

*This information includes ideas and suggestions that is educational in nature, and is provided only as general information. We are not medical professionals; and our advice should not be looked upon as medical treatment plans. This information does not represent the views or opinions of Young Living.*

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23531112

https://www.fastcompany.com/3040039/its-not-just-for-your-brain-meditating-can-actually-change-your-dna

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/the-science-of-essential-oils-for-mind-body-and-spirit