How much time do you spend being busy throughout the day, tackling tasks that make your brain work overtime? And how much time do you spend quietly settling your mind, clearing it of all the thinking, analysing, and constant planning? Not to mention all the complaints about the countless things that aren’t going your way, the old resentments that resurface, the worries, and those endless to-do lists.

It’s not your fault! 

Life can be stressful, and often we’re not taught how to manage it. Instead, we turn to food, alcohol, drugs, compulsive shopping, binge-watching TV, or other distractions for a bit of relief. If you sometimes feel like your mind is running away with you and you don’t know how to stop it… there’s good news ahead.

Meditation is something everyone can do, with no need for anything outside yourself. However, if you’re looking, you’ll easily find meditation courses and groups to guide you.

Eckhart Tolle, who transformed his life after a stress-induced breakdown on a park bench, says: “Some changes look negative on the surface, but you will soon realise that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge.”

Here are some simple ideas to help align your mind with your best purposes, bringing clarity, focus, and peace.

Why Should I Meditate?

The human mind is a marvellous machine, but it is just that—a computer given to us to use. Yet, most of us let it use us! The good news (and isn’t it wonderful that there’s always good news if we look for it 😊) is that, like a computer, the mind can be programmed to run the systems you choose.

Here are just a few of the benefits meditation can offer:

Reduced negative emotions
Calmer anxiety
New perspectives on stressful situations
Improved memory and cognition
Increased self-awareness
Greater focus on the present
Recognition of addictive behaviours
Emotional balance
Boosted creativity
Enhanced self-awareness
Longer attention span
Better sleep
Increased patience and tolerance
More ease, kindness, and understanding

How Does Meditation Affect My Brain and Neurochemistry?

Your brain can naturally produce key chemicals that pharmaceutical companies synthesise in a lab. For example, serotonin regulates mood, social behaviour, appetite, sleep, memory, and more. Some antidepressants increase usable serotonin levels. Meditation has been shown to boost serotonin levels naturally, without the side effects, making it a promising complementary therapy.

Measurable neurochemical changes from meditation include:

Increased alpha wave activity: Alpha waves are linked to relaxation.
Increased GABA: Gamma-aminobutyric acid reduces anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation.
Increased serotonin: Higher serotonin levels regulate mood and combat depression.
Increased BDNF: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor supports neuron health and neuroplasticity, aiding people with chronic pain or depression.
Regulated dopamine: Meditation improves self-regulation, which can help with addiction issues.
Reduced cortisol: Lower levels of this stress hormone help decrease inflammation and manage weight.
Reduced norepinephrine: Fewer stress hormones in the body mean reduced adrenaline levels.

With thanks to Yoga Journal, you can read more on their website

But How Do I Begin Meditating?

Here are some ways to get started that may surprise you.

First thing in the morning, as you open your eyes, notice your thoughts. Are they racing with plans for the day or lingering on yesterday? Simply observe. Awareness of your thought patterns is the first step.

Last thing at night, as your head hits the pillow, notice if you’re replaying undone tasks, resentments, or worries about tomorrow. Again, just notice. Be gentle with yourself. These are the movies your mind plays and observing them is key.

When this habit forms, and you can detach from the mental noise, you’ll find you’re ready to step back and observe your mind more calmly. Interestingly, observing the mind already begins to quiet it, creating space to change old habits.

And here’s the big surprise: You don’t need to sit cross-legged on the floor in silence! Meditation can be more flexible than you think.

Try These Simple Breathing Techniques

Focus on your breathing, allowing it to even out naturally.
Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth.
Notice your chest movement. If it’s excessive, shift your focus lower, allowing your diaphragm to take over.
Draw the breath into your stomach for deeper, more effective breathing.
Meditation can happen in odd moments throughout the day. It’s as simple as noticing your thoughts running wild and gently pulling yourself back to the present.

A Tea Meditation to Try

Choose your tea thoughtfully: Explore the colours and aromas of your teas. Sniff the teas, take in the colours of the boxes or jars you keep them in. Take a moment to appreciate having these choices and feel the gratitude—many do not. Have a look at the selection of teas we offer in our online tea shop.
Select a special cup: Change things up by using a rarely chosen mug or your favourite one.
Notice the water: Observe the boiling water, the steam, and the transformation.
Watch the tea steep: Enjoy the colours as they unfold.
Be present while adding ingredients: Appreciate the textures and sounds of milk, honey, or a spoon against the saucer.
Sip slowly: Savour the flavours and aromas, allowing your senses to immerse in the moment. Simply be with your tea.
Your Meditation Practice Is a Gift to Yourself

Your meditation practice can be achieved anytime, anywhere, sitting, standing, running or even lying down. It is an attitude towards your thinking. It is a way of being. It is a conscious application of releasing the need to ruminate over the past or to worry about the future.

Try it. You deserve it!

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you’re on any prescription medications, consult your physician before introducing something new to your diet for medicinal purposes.

The Taka Tea(m).

Meditation Ideas for Beginners