Put The Om Back In Your Body (Ask Laurie)

Chief Wellness Hero, Laurie Erdman, writes a monthly column for FemCentral. If you have a question for Laurie, simply leave it as a comment to this post, or email jennifer@jenniferlshelton.com, with the subject, “Ask Laurie.”

When it comes to creating a vibrant life with good health and abundant energy, I find most people want a silver bullet.  We want just one thing we can do to feel better.  In many respects, diet seems to be the easiest, or at least the first place people start.

But health, wellness and thriving are about more than what we eat.  What we think is just as important.

There are lots of ways we can alter the way we think. There is therapy, biofeedback, and my favorite – meditation.

The evidence is overwhelming about how effective meditation is in improving our health.  A 2010 article in Neurology demonstrated that health-related quality of life, including incidences of depression, anxiety and fatigue, decreased significantly for those participating in a structured 8-week program of mindfulness training.  Other studies have found that meditation produces lasting results in the brain (increasing connections) and improves proper immune system function.

I’ve practiced meditation on and off for many years.  I started because I thought that was what you were supposed to do to be a better person.  But when I started practicing as a way to sink into my body, become in tune with my rhythms and ease my fears, I began so see the health benefits. I became more relaxed.  Perfection wasn’t an all consuming pursuit. I slept better.

The good news is that meditation isn’t just for yogis and Buddhist monks.  Anyone can do it, anywhere.  And it’s free.  Here’s a basic plan that I use with clients to get started.

When starting out, it’s best to find a quiet place. Sit in a chair with your back supported and your feet on the ground, in a cross-legged position, or however else is comfortable.  You can close your eyes or you can focus on a stationary point. Take a few cleansing breathes.  You can chant Om three times if that helps clear your mind.

Scan your body from head to toe, relaxing as you go.  Then observe your breath.  In. Out.  If thoughts enter your mind space, notice them but don’t chase them.  Watch them float by like a fish in an aquarium.  If you are apt to follow a thought, thank the thought for coming and tell you will get back to it when you’re done.

If this is your first time meditating, start with 5 minutes. Work your way up to 20 minutes.  If you can’t find 20 minutes, do it for 5 minutes, 4 times a day.

How often should you meditate? This is a practice best done daily.  And yes, I know it’s hard.  It can be harder than getting your booty moving.  But the benefits are tremendous.

Meditation cultivates awareness.  When we are aware we begin to see ourselves in a different light.  We see those behaviors that are self-destructive.  We see how we choose to feel bad.  We see how our thoughts undermine our health.

Awareness is pure gold.  It propels us to change behaviors.

So the next time you reach for that slice of chocolate cake that will leave you bloated and brain-fogged, try sitting on the cushion. Discover why you engage in self-sabotaging behaviors. Your body will thank you from every level.

Happy meditating,
Laurie

Check out Laurie’s upcoming program: Transformation is possible. The status quo is not your future.  Empower your self to be more Vibrant, Energetic and Joyful.  The journey begins October 5th. (Registration closes October 3rd).