Meditation seems to be all the rage these days. All the celebrities and athletes we admire are touting the benefits of this ancient practice. At the end of the day, it’s never a bad decision to just sit and be still for even a few minutes. With our fast-paced lifestyles and constant searching for the “next thing” on our screens, it can be hard to remember to be present.
There are some small steps and things you can get to help you incorporate elements of meditation into your lifestyle. This can be anything from essential oils to a new yoga mat. These tools will help you become more aware of your body and surroundings, leading to a happier and healthier mind and body.
Meditation cushion
Start off or end your days on a soft surface, literally and figuratively. By meditating on a cushion, you’ll let your body and mind really focus on relaxing.
Zafu Meditation Cushion, $37.95
Yoga mat
Incorporate some meditation into your morning or nighttime routine. If you like to do some yoga or stretching, take an extra 5 minutes on the mat to meditate.
Manduka Yoga Mat 5mm, $58
Diffuser
A great way to have calm all the time is to get a diffuser in your room. This will help with incorporating aromatherapy into your life. You can diffuse some lavender before bed to help you sleep or a citrus oil in the morning to help you wake up.
Urban Outfitters Modern Essential Oil Diffuser, $59
Essential oils
You don’t have to have a diffuser to incorporate aromatherapy into your meditation practice. Even just dabbing some peppermint oil on your neck or wrists to perk you up in the middle of the day can help.
Essential Oil Aromatherapy Starter Kit, $19.95
Calm App
It’s not easy starting a meditation practice on your own. You can start with using an app like Calm to get started. It has guided meditations as well as “sleep stories” that are meant to help you go to bed. There are free aspects, but subscriptions to unlock all the features start at $4.99/month.
Headspace
Similar to above, this is an app that can help you fully achieve your zen through your phone. It also has a free trial and subscription options that begin at $5.74/month.
Books
There are tons of books out there meant to introduce you to the world of meditation. Pick one up from your local library or bookstore to see what meditation is really all about.
Turning the Mind Into an Ally Paperback Edition, $11.60