Meditate to Lower Anxiety

These days, anxiety hangs thick in the air. Many people are concerned about losing their jobs, their homes, the extras they have grown accustomed to. We worry about the future of our planet, our home. And, thanks to the widespread concern about this newest flu, we are worried about our health and that of our children. That is a lot of worry.

Many wise people have prescribed a specific cure for anxiety, worry, and getting caught up in the whirlwind of a chaotic world. Meditation is recommended by wise people from all walks of life, from Buddhism, to Christianity, to Yoga practitioners, Martial artists, and Healers of all types. Meditation does not have to mean sitting in a lotus position at the top of a mountain, saying, “ohm.” That method is useful for many, but certainly not for all. Simply take a few minutes each day, whether it is a break in your workday, or a few moments at home. You can meditate while sitting at your desk, with your feet on the ground and your eyes focused (or unfocused) on a beautiful scene that you find relaxing.

If you find that you do not feel relaxed when you sit still, try meditating while you run. Leave the iPod at home and let your mind wander, perhaps taking in the tiny buds beginning to show themselves on the trees, or hearing the trickle of the water in the river. Some people find their best meditation is in the moments after a good workout, like the Yoga meditation. Others prefer to lead themselves to a favourite place in their minds as they lie in bed, waiting for sleep to come. Meditation is about letting your mind rest for a few moments, so that you can touch that part in you that is greater than your everyday concerns, your anxiety, or your stress.

It gives you a chance to get back in touch with You and to realize that you are far more able to handle things than you think you are. Meditation is a path to peace.If you have difficulty with meditation, or have had training that did not fit you, you can take a class or share techniques with others. Some possible places to learn meditation are: Yoga classes, Centre for Positive Living (every Wednesday evening at 6:30), or a Buddhist meditation class at Calgary Buddhist Temple or Akshobya Kadampa Buddhist Centre. For some, prayer is a form of meditation, and for others, physical exertion is meditative. Whichever method you choose, put a little meditation in your day and watch your anxiety level drop!