Maybe you’ve heard about meditation or you’ve tried it a time or two. Maybe you think you’d like to try it, or for some reason it’s just not working the wonders that you’ve heard about from others. The truth is that meditation is beneficial for the mind and can make a difference in the way you perceive the world around you.

With every moment we spend meditating, we have the opportunity to cultivate self-awareness and change how we perceive the world. In fact, the word “meditation” is an English translation of Indo-Tibetan words connoting the cultivation of familiarity with one’s own mind. Meditation gives you the tools to train your mind to be habitual in a positive or adaptive way and reduce all the negative habits or perceptions in your life.

Whether you’ve meditated 1 time or 100 times, educating yourself on the practice can help enhance its experience. Consider the following tips:

Tip #1: Don’t Get Stuck on ‘How’

Not to piggyback off of Nike’s motto, but just do it really applies to the concept of meditation. The goal of meditation is to clear your mind and relax, and getting caught up in the details can help derail your focus. Allow your body and mind to relax as you float away with your thoughts.

Tip #2: Check Yourself (Emotionally)

As you meditate, note how you’re feeling. Stressed? Overwhelmed? Tired? Try to work through these emotions as you meditate to come out with a clearer mind.

Tip #3: You Don’t Have to Close Your Eyes

It’s a common misconception that you have to close your eyes during meditation. Some techniques require your eyes to only be partially closed so you don’t fall asleep.

Tip #4: You Don’t Have to Sit

It’s also a common misconception that you have to sit with your legs crossed on the floor to meditate. There is another technique called walking meditation, making walking the actual experience. According to Berkeley, you should choose an outdoor path that allows at least 15 steps. Walk your desired length, pause, breathe, and turn around to repeat the process.

Tip #5: Don’t Give up too Fast

The act of being mindful doesn’t come natural to everyone. It might take a few tries to get the hang of meditating and experience its benefits.

Many of us live busy lives, and it’s tough to keep our health and well-being as top priority. However, even short spurts of daily meditation can help keep our minds in check. Keep following Best Life Hub for more tips on meditation, well-being, and more.