Meditation For Beginners
Meditation. You’ve probably heard about it. Maybe you even tried it once or twice and wondered… What is this even doing for me? Or maybe you’ve been wanting to try and didn’t know where to begin. Mediation is a simple yet powerful practice that improves focus, cultivates self-awareness, and enhance overall emotional well-being. Below are some common myths vs truths, and a simple guide to help get you started on your meditation journey.
Common Myths Vs Truths about Meditation
Myth: You have to clear your mind to meditate.
Truth: Meditation is about noticing your thoughts and gently coming back to the present moment.
Myth: You have to sit perfectly still on the floor.
Truth: You can meditate in a chair, on your couch, lying down, or even walking.
Myth: You need 30 minutes or more.
Truth: Even 3–5 minutes can make a difference.
Myth: If your mind wanders, you’re doing it wrong.
Truth: Noticing your mind wandering is the practice.
Myth: Meditation is only for spiritual people.
Truth: Meditation is simply a tool for awareness that anyone can use.
Myth: You should feel calm every time.
Truth: Some days feel peaceful, some feel restless—both are part of the process.
Myth: You have to do it every day perfectly.
Truth: Consistency helps, but imperfect practice still counts.
Myth: Meditation will fix everything instantly.
Truth: It’s a gentle practice that builds clarity and steadiness over time.
Getting Started
Beginning a meditation practice is a step toward feeling more grounded. There are many different styles of meditation, and there’s no right or wrong way to do it—no special equipment needed. Try starting with just 3–5 minutes a day and slowly build from there. With regular practice, meditation gently strengthens your ability to stay present. Think of it as strength training for your mind. Below are two beginner-friendly styles to help you get started.
🌿 Breath Awareness Meditation (my personal favorite)
One thing is always happening during meditation, whether you notice it or not—your breath. Your breath is your anchor, one steady constant you can return to at any moment. Why not let it support you? Focusing on your breath helps bring you into the present, and it’s always there to come back to when your mind wanders or thoughts start to take over.
How to try breath awareness meditation:
Find any comfortable position and gently close your eyes if that feels okay. Notice your natural breathing without trying to change it—just feel the inhale and the exhale. When your mind wanders (and it will), softly bring your attention back to your breath. Start with 3–5 minutes, and when you’re done, take one deeper breath before opening your eyes.
🌿 Guided Meditation
Guided meditation is great for those that prefer not to sit in silence. It can make meditation feel more approachable, especially when you’re just starting out. Instead of sitting in silence, you follow along with a guided voice that offers cues, imagery, or simple instructions.
How to try guided meditation:
Find a quiet place to sit or lie down comfortably and choose a short recording—5 to 10 minutes is perfect. Let yourself listen without trying to do it perfectly, just follow the guidance and notice what comes up. If your mind drifts, gently come back to the voice and keep going.
👉 I highly recommend the Insight Timer app—it’s free and offers thousands of guided meditations and other styles to explore. https://insighttimer.com/
A Few Important Reminders
You always have your breath with you wherever you go. You can use it anytime to help bring you back to the present moment, or to help calm you in stressful situations.
Meditation is not about trying to silence your thoughts. It is a gentle practice to help you notice your thoughts and allow them to come and go. It is used to help ground you. When done consistently, it can help you to stay calm in stressful life situations.
There is no right or wrong way to meditate. Let yourself explore and see what fits. Different styles of meditation offer different benefits, and your practice can be uniquely yours.
Meditation doesn’t have to be complicated—just a few honest minutes with yourself can make a difference. Start where you are, be patient, and let the practice unfold naturally. And if you’d like guidance building a simple routine, I’d love to support you.
With Love,
Sherri