Last week I provided some practical ways to incorporate meditation into modern life and this week is a continuation of that subject. So how did the last week go? If you were able to bring some of these techniques into play, give yourself a big hug (because hugs are always awesome)! And know that you are on your way into forming a new, amazing life-changing practice. Since these posts are really focused on the modern world, I want to provide some hip tech gadgets for meditation in modern life and tools that can make it even more seamless to create a new pattern.
Meditate with Others…Virtually
Getting into stillness and silence doesn’t have to be done alone. As a matter of fact, being in a collective group can be incredibly motivational.
- Download Insight Timer. You can see who else in the world is online meditating right now! And if you join with a free account, you can create your own group. Then you can invite a buddy or two (or your entire address book) and have a place to meditate virtually together! Insight Timer has both a website and app for iPhone, iPad and Android.
Create a New Routine
Did you forget about being mindful?? The day just got busy and suddenly Monday turned into Thursday. It can happen, so here’s a fun tool for you!
- If you have a trendy fitness tracker, like Fitbit or Jawbone, you can set up alarms and reminders. This is a great way to incorporate meditation into an activity you’ve already made a habit, and this provides momentum for top-of-mind awareness,also! Set the alarm 3 or 4 times daily – when that reminder comes along, take 30 seconds. Even if you’re in a meeting, you can take a long, slow deep breath. Get aware – how are you feeling? What are you choosing to focus on right now? What one thing could you change right now to be more present and appreciative? Maybe you smile, look out the window at nature, step away from your computer to stretch, sit up taller and check to make sure your shoulders are relaxed. These are all options to bring you back into the present moment.
- Not into fitness gadgets – that’s okay! How about a smart phone or email? You likely have a mobile phone with reminder options built-in to the software (no custom app needed) or maybe you use a calendar alert system such as Outlook at work or at home. Whatever tool you choose, create a few moments in your day to remind yourself about being aware of the NOW and acknowledging that this very moment is fleeting and impermanent. Enjoy it!
Experience Gratitude
Maybe the glass seemed half empty more than it was half full last week? Well, here’s a handy helper to provide support and encouragement in a customized way for you!
- Download LOVE, aTinyBuddha app. This tool provides all sorts of inspiring, uplifting affirmations and quotes on a customizable timeline that works for your schedule. There are 4 categories – questions, challenges, affirmations and quotes. Choose as many or few as you like. As soon as you read or interact with the messages, you will be in the moment and have the option to choose to spend a few moments pondering, in gratitude, just being! The LOVE app is currently available on iPhone.
I’m so curious how this journey is going for you. Are these tools right for you? Please let me know in the comments below. And create an experience of being in the now, present and centered internally – no matter what’s going on “out there” in the modern world.
There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday, the other is called tomorrow. Today is the right day to love, believe, do and mostly live. – Dalai Lama
~ Health, Happiness and Prosperity ~