Have you ever felt like a whirlwind-chasing squirrel, desperately seeking a moment of calm amidst the chaos of everyday life? Well, friends, we have a possible solution to help restore calm and bring you a sense of balance. No, you don’t need a ‘namaste’ t-shirt for this, or to be off in the desert camping alone, trying to find yourself (you could be, though!); you just need an open mind for this transformative adventure. So, find a comfortable place in your happy place, snuggle up on your comfiest cushion, and get ready to dive headfirst into the captivating world of meditation!

Meditation has been around for centuries, offering a multitude of benefits for both mind and body. From reducing stress to enhancing focus, this ancient practice has stood the test of time for a reason. But here's the secret: meditation doesn't have to be all serious and somber. In fact, it can be downright fun!

The first step in your quest for inner peace is finding the meditation style that tickles your fancy. What do I mean by that? There's no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to meditation, and I wish someone had told me that little secret before I gave up time after time after time years ago. Just like your favorite ice cream flavor, you've got to sample a few different flavors to find the one that makes your taste buds (and soul) dance with delight to calm those continuous thoughts in your head.

So, let's explore a few popular meditation styles and see which one resonates with you:

• Guided Visualization: Guided visualization takes you on a delightful journey through your imagination, allowing you to escape the worries of the world and tap into your creative power. Picture this—floating on a cloud, soaring through starlit skies, or strolling along a tranquil beach. I promise you; the journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring! Just starting out or not sure where to start? Calm, Insight Timer, and Headspace are great apps to try. 

• Mindful Breathing: Breathe in, breathe out, and let the rhythm of your breath guide you to a state of bliss. Mindful breathing meditation focuses on observing and controlling your breath, helping you cultivate calmness and present-moment awareness. Bonus points for trying this while pretending to be a serene yoga master like myself. The key here? Find the breathing technique that works best for you. Just starting out or not sure where to start? I recommend alternate nose breathing, deep belly breathing, or box breathing. Interested in a more in-depth blog on these? Add a comment once you wrap! 

• Mantra Meditation: I do this all the time and had no idea I was practicing meditation! If you've ever caught yourself humming a catchy tune like me, mantra meditation might be just your cup of tea. Pick a word or phrase that resonates with you (like “joy,” "peace," or "I am enough"), repeat it silently or out loud, and let its positive vibes permeate your being. Soon enough, you'll be singing your way to tranquility.

• Silent Hike: My personal favorite! In the realm of adventurous meditation experiences, there's one that truly elevates your practice — silent hiking. Imagine immersing yourself in nature's embrace, the gentle rustle of leaves, and the rhythmic crunch of the trail beneath your feet. As you traverse winding paths, meditation hiking allows you to find inner peace while connecting with the awe-inspiring beauty of the great outdoors. It's a unique blend of mindfulness and adventure, where every step becomes an opportunity to ground yourself, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and discover harmony within the ever-changing landscape. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and embark on a soul-enriching journey where nature becomes your sanctuary and meditation becomes your compass.

Now that you've found your meditation groove let's spice things up with a sample script to kick-start your practice. Feel free to add your own twist, record yourself saying these words, then meditate to it later, and simply have fun with it!

You are about to embark on a journey of inner bliss and self-discovery. Ready? Let's go!

Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Inhale the good vibes and exhale the stress. 

Imagine yourself standing on the edge of a vast meadow. The grass tickles your toes, and a gentle breeze brushes against your skin. In the distance, you spot a mystical tree with shimmering leaves, beckoning you to its shade. As you walk closer, you notice a soft glow emanating from the tree, filling you with a sense of calm.

As you reach out to touch the tree's trunk, you feel an instant connection to the energy of the earth. With each breath, imagine that you are drawing in pure, positive energy through the crown of your head, flowing down through your body, and grounding you to the earth below. Feel your body becoming lighter, as if you are floating in the air.

Now, imagine yourself surrounded by a radiant bubble of light, protecting you and filling you with love. Within this bubble, all worries and distractions melt away. Your mind becomes still, like a calm lake reflecting the beauty of the world around you.

Take a moment to appreciate the present moment, the stillness within you, and the boundless possibilities that await. Allow any thoughts or emotions to come and go, like passing clouds in the sky, without judgment or attachment. You are the observer, simply witnessing the ebb and flow of your inner world.

When you're ready, gently bring your awareness back to your breath, feeling the rise and fall of your chest. Wiggle your fingers and toes, roll out your wrists and ankles, and slowly open your eyes. We hope you are back from the meadow feeling refreshed, renewed, and ready to embrace the world with a newfound sense of peace.

Remember, friends, the key to a successful practice is having an open mind, staying consistent, and being patient with the process. Just like a dancing pebble in a flowing river, let your meditation practice evolve and adapt to your needs. Embrace the fun, the silliness, and the joy of discovering your unique path to serenity. 

Until next time, Namaste!

— Lindsey Escaja