Unpacking Meditation: Finding what works for YOU

Have you ever wondered, "What exactly is meditation?" If you've looked into it, you've probably noticed something: countless definitions are out there. Books, podcasts, and videos all offer their take, and everyone clearly has a different understanding and method.

I used to be confused by this, too. I thought there was a strict "right" and "wrong" way to meditate. My image was of someone sitting perfectly still in absolute silence, with an empty mind. But for those of us with minds that love to wander, that can feel like an impossible task!

Through my own exploration, I realized something crucial: meditation is deeply personal.

It's about our individual connection to the spiritual world and how we choose to interact with it. This connection can happen in so many ways. For some, it's found while walking in nature. For others, it's during exercise. Even sitting in quiet contemplation or listening to calming music can be a form of meditation. The key is discovering what helps you quiet your mind and open yourself to that connection.

For me, meditation is about consciously connecting with spirit, my personal spirit team, and any loving beings who support my well-being. It's a time to listen for guidance and advice. Even after practicing for a while, I've learned that trying to force my mind to be completely blank doesn't work. Instead, I acknowledge the thoughts that arise, thank them for showing up, and gently guide my attention back to my intention.

Interestingly, when my mind wanders during meditation, I sometimes see it as a gentle nudge from spirit. Perhaps there's something pressing that needs my attention before I can fully return to my practice. It's all about how you interpret those moments and your interaction with the divine.

Think of meditation like spirituality itself – it's a unique journey for each of us. If we try to rigidly follow the practices of gurus or monks, we risk losing that personal touchstone.

Instead of giving you a rigid set of instructions, here's some guidance to help you find your own way:

 1. Make it your own experience: There's no one-size-fits-all. Experiment and discover what resonates with you.

 2. Decide on your own timeframe: Whether it's 30 seconds or 30 minutes, choose a duration that feels right for you.

 3. Choose your own way to connect: Find a location and method that helps you feel peaceful and open. This could be sitting, walking, listening to music, or anything else.

 4. Invite your spirit team: Consciously invite your spirit team to be present during your meditation. Remember, they are there to support you, but will only interact when invited.

 5. Enjoy and learn: Be open to whatever arises during your meditation and see it as part of your unique experience.

For many, connecting right away doesn't happen instantaneously. But like any practice, consistency is key. Even short, regular sessions can make a difference. The most important thing is to not give up and to release any judgment about whether you're "doing it right." Be open to the process. Understand that it won't always feel perfect, and that's perfectly okay. Spirit is here to guide us. Don't hesitate to ask your spirit team for help in your meditation, and be receptive to their guidance. If you find yourself struggling, it might simply not be the ideal time or place. Release any pressure to achieve a certain outcome and simply breathe through the experience.

I would genuinely love to hear about your own experiences with meditation and any insights or advice you might have for others and for me!