Tips for establishing a daily meditation habit. Research shows that daily meditation can reduce anxiety, improve health, and strengthen social connections, as well as many other benefits. . The Associated Press reports that a combination of people’s busy lives and misconceptions can cause many beginners to give up. . But experts say getting past the initial hurdle may come down to shedding common misconceptions about meditation. . Many people may feel that they are doing things “wrong” or that they are unable to slow down their thoughts and calm their mind. . It doesn’t mean you stop thinking. Just as the body produces enzymes, the mind produces thoughts. It’s about growing beyond thought and being able to witness it, by meditation teacher Tara Black, Associated Press. Tara Black, who has a PhD in psychology and has trained more than 7,000 people as a meditation teacher, says there’s no one right way to meditate. The key to meditation is to relax and focus on the present moment. . Distractions are inevitable, but the way to overcome them is to recognize the thought or urge to move and bring your attention back to the moment. . Meditation has no set time limit, so the important thing is to establish a daily habit, even if you can only meditate for a few minutes a day. . The Associated Press reports that research suggests that, like exercise, meditation’s greatest benefits come from consistent daily practice.
