Meditation Techniques for Busy People

Most people think of meditation as something you need a lot of time to do and you might be too busy to take time out of your day to meditate. Most meditation should take you 15 to 20 minutes each day, but if you do not have that kind of time then you can divide the time up throughout the day. Meditation comes in many different forms and techniques, but if you are busy you should check out some of these quick and easy techniques so you can still be on the go and still be practicing meditation.

The first meditation technique that even busy people can do is Breath Awareness exercises. Breath Awareness is a basic meditation technique and allows you to relax and become more aware of your presence and can be done at any place or time. The Breath Awareness exercise can be done either sitting or lying down because it involves your mind more than anything. What you need to do is close your eyes and start breathing, you will notice how effortlessly you breathe and the amounts of breaths you take. Try to picture in your mind how it feels when you breathe, what your body feels like as you inhale and exhale, be sure to note all the various aspects of your breathing without trying to duplicate the breaths. Just let your body take in the air and the smells around you as you breathe, this is all part of the Breath Awareness exercise and it is an important meditation technique to become aware of your breathing mannerisms. If you notice your mind wondering away from the breathing exercises that is fine but you should really be concentrating on the awareness of your breathing and your response internally and externally to it.

Another great meditation technique for busy people is the Body Awareness exercise. This exercise is similar to the breathing exercise except this one is all about your body. You do not have to do this for that long, just a few minutes here and there will be a great start in meditation. The Body Awareness exercise is done by you sitting or lying down in a comfortable position and closing your eyes. Once your eyes are closed, think about your body and the many different feelings and emotions that go on throughout your body. You can rub your feet and slowly go up your body making note of the feelings you get when you touch that certain part of your body. Think about the size and shape of your body and body parts as well, and think about how you would describe these areas. Make a note of feelings and sensations that are going on in your body, whether good or bad feelings, and think about what it would be like to be inside your body. This meditation is great for people who feel self-conscious or maybe for a pregnant woman who wants to become more in touch with her changing body. The Body Awareness exercise is all about becoming aware of your body and the feelings, emotions, and sensations that occur when certain parts of your body are touched.

Another great meditation for busy people is knitting. Knitting is actually a meditation technique that many women young and old use everyday to clear their minds and become more relaxed. The experience of the yarn, needles, and usage of both your hands actually makes your brain think you are relaxing. Knitting can be a soothing and calming experience, especially when you are knitting something for a loved one. Knitting is something you can do even if you are busy, take five minutes a day or at night to start knitting a hat or some gloves for the winter. If you start knitting as a meditation practice you will feel more relaxed and calm while also giving your hands a workout. While your knit you should only think of the experience of knitting and the various sensations you feel from the movements of your hands, this is a very nice way to meditate.

Walking is something we all do everyday and can be a very good meditation for busy people. If you walk, you should let your thoughts be on walking, similar to the Body Awareness exercise. Make mental notes of how your legs and feet feel as you walk, and the sensations that follow. You should take note also of the way your hands move during your walk and how light or heavy your steps are as you walk. Walking is something most people do a lot of everyday, so if you do not have time for other meditation techniques just walk where you normally would but turn it into a meditation by becoming aware of the feelings and sensations that go on during walking. Walking is a natural meditation technique because it allows you to clear your mind and thoughts and also helps you become more self-aware by being involved in the process of walking.