Can You Really Learn How to Meditate?

Lots of people try to meditate or just think about trying and get the feeling it’s too difficult. But it’s a practice that can pay off in big ways, especially for caregivers. It’s easier than you think.

Meditation Doesn’t Require a Specific Spot

One misconception about meditation is that you have to do it in a certain location or in a certain way. You can honestly meditate anywhere and in any situation. Once you get past that belief, you’re a little freer to make meditation something that you get the best benefits out of without feeling like you’re doing it wrong.

You Can Do Your Own Thing

That said, the actual mechanics of meditation are the same way. Just like you don’t have to have a special meditation cave, you don’t have to adhere to any particular rules about meditating. You can meditate for one minute at a time if that’s all you can stick to right now and that’s fine. Avoid getting hung up on right and wrong.

Remove Distractions, if You Can

If it helps, try to reduce distractions. That might mean playing some instrumental music through headphones or closing your eyes. If you’re trying to meditate somewhere public, that might not be an option. One trick you can use is to focus on an object across the room. You do need to be careful about where and when you choose to meditate. Driving, for instance, is not a great time to try meditating.

Notice Your Thoughts, and Then Move Them Aside

The key to the entire concept of meditating isn’t that you completely clear your mind and get rid of all of the thoughts in your head. That can be a relief when you’re just getting started with meditating. You’re not trying to get rid of all of your thoughts. Notice your thoughts as they pop up, but don’t dwell on them. Just let them move to the side.

Keep Trying to Meditate, Even if You Find it Difficult

Even if you’re finding that meditation isn’t as easy as you hoped, keep trying. The more that you do it, the easier it will eventually get. You’re also getting benefits from just making the attempt to meditate, even if you don’t feel that you’re doing it perfectly or even close to right.

Meditation can help you a lot as a caregiver because it teaches you to go with the flow and to slow down your reactions a little bit. That can help immensely when you’re stressed and overwhelmed.