By: Lexy Parsons

The benefits of meditation are well known, so why does meditation feel so difficult? If you feel like you can’t meditate, we’re here to help.

There are many barriers to meditation, but the biggest might be the reality we avoid. There are countless distractions thrown at us each day, making it seem impossible to sit and meditate without our minds wandering and thinking about all of the things on our to-do lists. If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. But, getting started with meditation can be as simple as dedicating 5 minutes to your practice! Researchsuggests even five minutes of meditation can reduce stress and promote well-being! Not so intimidating, after all!

We’re giving you all the tools to help turn off your brain and get started with meditation — even if you think you can’t.

RELATED: A Meditation For Whatever You’re Feeling Right Now

5 Reasons You Can’t Meditate 

#1 You Have Too Much on Your Mind 

If you have too much on your mind, don’t let this be a reason why you can’t meditate. In fact, this could be an indication you need to meditate all the more! Whether you’re brand new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, thoughts will undoubtedly arise. The more you show up to your meditation practice, the more you will learn to let those thoughts come and then let them go.

#2 You’re Worried You’re Not Doing it “Right” 

Wondering why you can’t meditate “correctly” is more common than you may think, especially if you’re new to meditation. Am I breathing correctly? Why aren’t my thoughts going away? How long am I supposed to sit here? If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. But, despite what you may think, there’s no “right” way to meditate!

The most important part is simply showing up! If thoughts arise, simply return to your breath and focus.

#3 You Aren’t in a Comfortable Place 

If you’re wondering why meditation is difficult, you may be uncomfortable. While you don’t need a fancy meditation cushion or an entire room dedicated to your meditation practice (but if you have either, great!), it’s important to find a space and a position where you can relax.

Find a quiet space to practice, and then focus on your seat. Try sitting in an upright position with your legs crossed, shoulders relaxed, and arms resting on your legs. If this isn’t comfortable for you, try laying flat on your back with your eyes closed and head supported!

#4 You Get Impatient When a Million Thoughts Pop up While You Meditate

Does the mere thought of sitting still with your thoughts stress you out? You may justify your impatience as a reason why you can’t meditate, but try showing up anyway. You may even feel frustrated, annoyed, or angry — but these are all normal emotions! Plus, ignoring these feelings won’t make them go away.

Rather than letting these emotions fester (and possibly even explode at a later time), try to make space and honor whatever you’re feeling in the moment. Instead of judging your thoughts, focus on coming back to your breath.

#5 You’re Putting Too Much Pressure on Feeling a Certain Way During Meditation 

A common reason for getting started with meditation is to relieve stress and anxiety or quiet the mind. But, be aware — you may not experience these stress-relieving benefits during every meditation! Putting too much pressure on feeling a certain way can leave you feeling disappointed, especially at first while you’re still finding your meditation rhythm.

This can be a reason why meditation is difficult, but know your meditation practice is a journey, not a quick fix. Rather than trying to control your practice and emotions, you may find showing up with zero expectations gives you more room to grow and experience change!

How to Turn Your Brain Off So You Can Actually Meditate 

Write Down Your Worries

Write down your to-do list or any worries before you start your practice, so you have a clear head going into your meditation.

Drink a Calming Beverage 

Drink a warm beverage like a turmeric latte before you meditate to help promote a sense of calm and ease your mind. Chamomile tea is another great, relaxing beverage option.

Try Yoga First 

Try a relaxing FitOn yoga flow to help quiet your thoughts and prime your mind to relax. It doesn’t have to be an hour-long yoga practice. A quick 10-minute flow may do just the trick!

Eliminate Distractions 

Find a comfortable place with little distractions. If you can’t avoid noise, investing in noise-canceling headphones or playing calming music can help quiet outside distractions and make you more comfortable. Then, add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your diffuser to promote a feeling of calm.

Disconnect to Reconnect 

Turn off your TV, put your laptop away, and avoid scrolling through social media. Removing distractions may help you reconnect with your thoughts.

Try Meditating in the Morning 

Try meditating first thing in the morning before you’ve started your to-do list or before bed once you’ve ended your day. This can help eliminate a racing mind.

Start Small 

Commit to just five minutes of meditation and work your way up! You can do anything for five minutes — we believe in you!

Take 5 Minutes To Quiet Your Mind 

If you’re ready to get started with your meditation practice, try our meditation hacks to quiet your mind.

When you sign up for FitOn, you’ll gain access to a library full of meditations — everything ranging from sleep to stress and more! Browse the meditation category in the app to bring a bit more zen into your day.

See original article at: https://fitonapp.com/