"Zen and the Art of Fidgety: Meditating When Your Inner Squirrel Won't Sit Still"
Terri Silipo | JUL 22, 2024
Are you one of those people who just can't seem to sit still for more than a minute? Does the thought of meditation make you break out in hives? Well, don't worry my fidgety friend, I've got you covered. I am here to introduce you to the wonderful world of meditation, a practice that can benefit even the most antsy among us.

Meditation is all about finding inner peace and quieting the mind. But for those of us who can't seem to stop tapping our feet or fidgeting with our hands, this may seem like a near-impossible task. However, I'm here to tell you that you too can start your own personal meditation practice and reap its many benefits. So, let's get started, shall we?
1. Find a comfortable position
The beauty of meditation is that you can do it in any position that feels comfortable for you. You don't have to sit cross-legged on the floor like a pretzel if that's not your thing. You can meditate in a chair, lying down, or even while standing. Just find a position that allows you to relax and breathe deeply.
2. Focus on your breath
Now that you're in a comfortable position, it's time to focus on your breath. Take a deep breath in through your nose, hold it for a few seconds, and then slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat this a few times, focusing on the sensation of your breath as it enters and leaves your body. If your mind starts to wander, just gently bring it back to your breath. Don't worry, it's completely normal for your mind to wander, especially if you're new to meditation.
3. Embrace the fidgeting
If you're someone who just can't sit still, instead of fighting it, try to embrace it. Use your fidgeting as a way to bring yourself back to the present moment. For example, if you find yourself tapping your foot, use that sensation as an anchor for your meditation. Focus on the feeling of your foot hitting the ground and the rhythm of the tapping. You can also try incorporating movement into your meditation, like swaying or gentle stretching.
4. Use guided meditations
If sitting in silence is just too much for you, try using guided meditations. There are plenty of free resources online that offer guided meditations of various lengths and styles. These can be especially helpful for beginners as they provide instructions and guidance on what to focus on during your meditation. Plus, the soothing voice of the guide can help keep your mind from wandering too much.
5. Be kind to yourself
Remember, meditation is a practice, not a perfection. It's okay if you can't sit still for more than a minute or if your mind wanders constantly. The key is to be patient with yourself and to not give up. Like any skill, meditation takes time and persistence to master. So, be kind to yourself and celebrate small victories, like being able to sit still for a few moments longer than the last time.
Starting a personal meditation practice can seem daunting, especially for those of us who can't seem to sit still. But with these tips, you can overcome your restlessness and embrace the wonderful benefits that meditation has to offer.
So, go ahead and give it a try, and remember to have a little fun with it too. Happy meditating, my fidgety friends!
Terri Silipo | JUL 22, 2024
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