With finals coming up, students are becoming overwhelmingly stressed about last-minute assignments and their overall success. People often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms including alcohol, smoking, or overeating. When people think of healthier ways to cope with their stress they usually assume yoga classes, expensive spas, and guided meditation classes are the only answer, however this is not necessarily true. Being a college student can limit your time and money which eliminates most of the healthier options. Nonetheless, meditation does not have to be as time consuming, costly, or inconvenient as the other options. Meditation is used to help calm our mind and eliminate any factors that are causing negative effects on our wellness. There are many types of meditation but the most useful meditation for this case is mindful meditation to ensure your self awareness stays in tact.
Mindfulness is to be completely aware of who you are and what you are doing. It is to be present in the moment without feeling overwhelmed about what is going on around you. While meditation can last up to more than an hour, but this practice does not have to be time-consuming at all. Every minute you direct towards your health and wellness can make a difference. As you begin to practice more, you will be able to focus more in the meditation, allowing you to be in tune with yourself and your surroundings for much longer. Mindful meditation can be practiced by yourself in the comfort of your own home with a few simple steps.
How to Practice Mindful Meditation:
- Find a place with a peaceful and calm setting. Take a seat on the floor or in a chair with your body’s posture straight but still relaxed, then rest your arms on your legs. Comfortable clothing is suggested to ensure maximum comfort.
- Try your best to clear your mind and become at ease. Bring your attention to your breaths.
- Begin deeply inhaling as you count to 3, allowing your breaths to fill up your belly with air. Then, slowly exhale while counting to 3 as your belly falls back down. Focus on your breathing and become steady and in tune with each breath you take.
- When your mind wanders, be sure to redirect it to your breathing without feeling hesitant or distraught.
- Be mindful of your negative thoughts coming to ease and when you lose focus, do not sharply attempt to redirect your mind to breathing, but serenely take note of these thoughts and monitor them.
- Take in your settings and use the last few minutes to focus on where you are and who you are.
- Steadily open your eyes (if they are closed) and proceed to get up and take one last deep breath.
After practicing this meditation frequently, you will notice your stress levels lower and you will become more self aware. Do not let finals get the best of you. Be patient, focus, and remain calm.
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