Meditate to relax and relax to meditate

Photo by Flickr user clgregor

En route to the Albuquerque airport Monday evening, I was aware of the difference in how much more relaxed I felt than on the trip to the Detroit airport. The contrast got me thinking about what makes me tense and what helps me relax. Of course, leaving town has many more challenges. I feel like I have to peel away from all the tasks and “shoulds” pulling at me. There’s nothing holding on to me when I end a vacation. Beyond that, though, I consider all the things that I let go when out of town, that I could also let go at home. Why not live like I do when on vacation? I don’t mean slacking off. I mean living in the present moment.

When I’m in a new environment, I have to pay attention or I’d get lost. Driving around, checking street signs, learning the ins and outs of the hotel all keep me in the present. When I’m in the moment, I’m automatically more relaxed. Nothing is pulling or pushing me. There’s stillness inside me and I’m operating from that stillness. Consequently, it is easier for me to meditate.

When we’re relaxed, the mental shift to a quiet state can happen almost automatically. Take a bath, read something inspiring, play with your dog or go for a walk, in nature especially, before you meditate. A reader recently commented on how easy it is to meditate after yoga.

In this blog I’ve written often about how meditation practice can help relax the mind and body. Pairing a relaxation activity with meditation can enhance your practice. Since most of us have time constraints, try arranging your schedule so that meditation can follow something relaxing. For example, if you always meditate and shower in the morning, try showering first and see if that helps you have a more satisfying meditation.

Share what works for you so that other readers can benefit from your experience!

As a mental health professional, an owner of a fitness studio, a writer and a wife, mother and grandmother, I have found meditation to be helpful in every aspect of my life. Let's talk...You can contact me at susanmmorales@yahoo.com or check out my websites: susanscottmorales.com and bodiesinbalancefitness.com