Feeling aches and pains, tiredness and overall poor health can often lead us into a downward spiral. It’s hard to be happy when we have low energy or when we experience physical pain. This often leads us to suffer negative moods and being in such a mood could only make things worse. To counteract this downward spiral, set aside time to practice meditation for well-being. This calms the mind, elevates the mood and helps pave the way for healing.
Focus on wellness
Start a new healthy habit of setting aside time to practice meditation for well-being. All types of meditation is beneficial to overall wellness. However, you can meditate in a way that directs your focus on improving your physical condition or the way you feel about your body, such as the one below. Think of it as calibrating or tuning your mindset, getting your head right so you can feel good mentally, emotionally and physically.
How to practice meditation for well-being
1. Find a quiet space and get into a comfortable seated position.
2. Close your eyes and tune in with your body, connect with the breath by taking five deep inhales and exhales. Slowly start to relax and let go of tension.
3. Set an intention to enjoy and appreciate your body.
4. Think of three to five pleasant thoughts about your body. Here are some examples:
“I appreciate that I am alive and that I woke up today.”
“I love my legs for supporting me my entire life.”
“I like the shape of my eyes.”
“I love the color and texture of my hair.”
“I like how my legs look in high heels.”
“I love how my butt looks in my favorite jeans.”
5. Think of three to five pleasant scenarios about your body. These scenarios can be real memories or imagined. For example:
“I am chasing my kids around the park, full of energy and laughter”
“I am doing yoga and my body is so flexible and graceful”
“I see myself walking down the street in my favorite outfit and feeling so confident in my body.”
“I’m doing a handstand and I’m definitely looking so strong and steady.”
“I am running along the beach Baywatch-style in slow motion looking very sexy.”
Remember to visualize for the joy of it. Do it in present tense like it’s happening right now. Focus on what you like and what you want rather than what you perceive you are lacking in physical health or appearance. When you think or visualize for joy, your thoughts are more pure and powerful.
6. As you meditate, make your thoughts stronger by picturing your real or imagined scenarios. Add details and emotions. The more details, the better. Have fun and feel the positive emotions of being in those moments.
When you focus on insecurity, sickness or the perceived lack of something wanted, you end up in a downward spiral again. Simply catch yourself without judgment and try again.
7. End your meditation with five full breaths. Remember to breathe slowly and mindfully. Gently flutter your eyes open and take note of how you feel.
Meditation can help pave the way for healing
Focus more restoration and healing into your life and your physical state will improve faster. Your thoughts affect your emotions and your emotions affect your behavior and therefore, your physical health.
Practicing meditation that focuses on good feeling thoughts about your body shifts your perspective from negative to positive. If practiced consistently, this mental shift will contribute tremendously to your overall health, happiness and well-being.