Discover simple meditation techniques to enhance focus and reduce stress this New Year.
“Meditation helps calm the brain by focusing on our breath,” says Mel Mah, an instructor at Calm. “This practice lets us pause for a moment in our busy lives. In those few minutes, we’re telling our nervous system to settle and reset.”
In today’s world, it’s common for workspaces to include a place to relax. Celebrities and executives now see meditation as an important daily habit. For instance, Oprah promotes transcendental meditation to find her ‘silent voice of awareness,’ while Jeff Weiner from LinkedIn suggests mindfulness to help his team focus better.
There are no strict rules for meditation. Experts have shared tips to help you start your journey to relaxing. You can find more wellness resources at Recovery Mode, like the Best Workout Apps and Best Red Light Therapy Masks.
What Can You Expect From Meditation?
Meditation can be done anywhere, whether in a quiet office or your bed, and it costs nothing.
“Learning to meditate can help you sleep better and lower body stress,” says Michael James Wong, a teacher and founder of Just Breathe. “Some studies show 30% lower cortisol levels and increased activity in the brain’s focus areas after meditation practice.”
There are different types of meditation to try, such as movement-based meditation or guided sessions using sounds or mantras. Techniques may include body scanning, visualization, or loving kindness.
Wong mentions three categories for meditation and breathwork: focused attention, present moment awareness, and mantra-based practices that expand consciousness.
Where to Start
There’s no one right way to meditate! A breath-based practice is a simple starting point. Guided sessions via apps like Just Breathe or Calm can be helpful but aren’t required. Many traditional meditations are silent, but if you feel anxious, calming music might help.