Finding Stillness With the Help of Technology
Theres a good chance you’ve been recommended meditation at one point or another. The practice is nothing new, yet its been gaining a lot of press as science has been validating its benefits with research.
At first it could be an easy thing to dismiss. Maybe it sounds boring to you or you don’t think you’d be good at it. Or perhaps you feel like you are too stressed and don’t have the time to devote to a practice. Well friend, if you’ve had any of these thoughts, then meditation is definitely for you! In a society that is always-on and overstimulated, it’s important now more than ever to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine.
Benefits of Meditation
How to Get Started
Get educated! Learn about what you’re getting into before you start.
One of my favorite books on meditation for beginners is “The Buddha Walks into a Bar.” The book takes a down to earth approach to meditation for the modern day human in western society.
"The Buddha Walks into a Bar is a book for those who are spiritual but not religious, who are disillusioned by the state of the world, who are sick of their jobs (and just started last Tuesday), who like drinking beer and having sex and hate being preached at, who are striving to deepen their social interactions beyond the digital realms of Twitter and Facebook. This is Buddhism presented to a generation leaving the safe growth spurts of college and entering a turbulent and uncertain work force.”
If you’re more of a visual learner, consider watching the Netflix special “Headspace Guide to Meditation.” Click here to watch the trailer.
Utilizing Technology for Stillness
The constant bombardment of screens has presented us with as many problems as luxuries. Overuse of technology has been said to be the culprit of overstimulation, stress, anxiety and disconnect. While eliminating devices completely is not an option for many of us, we can consider using our technology to encourage healthy habits.
A piece of technology that I have found helpful in maintaining a mediation practice is meditation apps! I’ve tried Simple Habit in the past and Im now experimenting with Headspace. Calm is another popular meditation app with positive reviews.
What I Love About Meditation Apps
Guided meditations with very specific topics. There are guided mediations for sleep, fear of flying, job interviews, grief etc. You'll find a meditation for whatever it is you are going through.
The meditations vary in length. Many are short, which is perfect for someone who is just starting their meditation practice. There are meditations from 3 minutes to 20+ minutes long.
They’re interactive. Theres a way to track the number of minutes you've meditated in a week to help you stay motivated.
There's a social component. You can encourage your friends to meditate that day if you see that they haven't.
Easy to use interface. The apps are easy to navigate and there are reviews from others who have used the meditations before to help you determine if the one you are about to listen to is for you.
Unguided meditation option. When you begin to feel ready to venture into the nothingness of your mind, there are options for unguided meditations, many with nature sounds.
Worry free. You don't have to worry about how long you've meditated as the apps keep time for you and alert you when your meditation time is up.
If you’re new to the practice, apps can be a great way to get you started. While many of the apps have free versions, I find they are best when paid as a monthly service. With all of the health benefits, its worth a try! You might even find that you desire meditation without the help of technology once you find a groove. Until then, baby steps!
See you in the void,
Kecia Fox, MSOM, LAc