Start meditating today

Meditation was never easy for me. In fact, I would find every excuse not to do it - run a marathon, climb a mountain, swim across an ocean - anything but sit still.

That was until I learnt the art of meditation from my teacher. Since then, my practice has become a part of my life, and I can't do without those precious 15 to 20 minutes a day where I drop deep into my heart centre and just allow myself to be.

Meditation provides me with stability, in an ever-changing world, as well as an appreciation of what is truly important. Meditation makes me a better person, more compassionate and accepting and has helped me immensely to stay focused with the many hats I wear as mother, wife, teacher and business owner.

Steps to take

First, meditation is best learned from an experienced instructor. If that is unavailable to you, try these simple steps.

1. Always try to meditate at the same time and same place each day. For me, the best time is first thing in the morning before the sun rises and before the demands of the world begin.

2. Create a comfortable sacred space that you can be relaxed in. I like to place a few drops of essential oil like lavender or peppermint in my palms. I rub my hands together to activate the oil and breathe it in. This simply helps to set the tone for my practice.

3. After a few gentle stretches to loosen up your muscles, come to a comfortable, cross-legged, seated position. I like 'sukasana' or easy pose: right heal into the groin, left heal in front of right ankle. If your hips are tight, support them by putting a cushion under each thigh. Allow your spine to get tall and your shoulders to relax away from the ears.

4. Now get in touch with your breath. Allow your breath to deepen, flowing in and out of your nose while observing the rise and fall of your abdomen as you breathe.

5. With each inhale, silently repeat the word 'let' and as you exhale, repeat the word 'go'. The simple mantra of 'let go' encourages the mind to let go of judgments etc. You can use any mantra that feels good to you.

6. Try to sit for five minutes, then build up to 10 minutes then 20, if you can.

Sharon McConnell-Feanny is a certified yoga instructor and co-owner of Shakti Mind Body Fitness. She has more than 25 years' experience in health and fitness; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.