There is nothing complicated or fancy about getting started with meditation. You have permission to resist the urge to purchase expensive pillows and mats. Instead, use whatever props you already have such as pillows or blankets, or use nothing at all. What matters most is finding a comfortable position.
We are all familiar with the visual of the cross legged monk, hands on each knee, sitting in perfect harmony with the surroundings. While this iconic image is attractive and connotes great discipline and mental maturity it is simply not doable for many people. Sitting cross legged is acceptable if this is comfortable for you, but it is not necessary to a successful meditation. Sitting in a chair, lying on the floor, sitting on your knees, using pillows and back supports, even meditating in bed are all examples of positions you can take.
There is truly no right or wrong way to sit. Meditation can be quite uncomfortable, especially in longer sessions. Finding a position that will not cause unnecessary pain is crucial. You do not want to create physical problems just to look the part. I remember for my 10 day silent meditation it was imperative that I supported my knees and lower back. If I did not adequately do both I would have severe pain and trouble moving after the session ended. Supporting your body according to its needs is important for long term health and adherence to a regular practice.
While there is no right or wrong way to sit there is a recommended time of day to meditate. First thing in the morning is always best, preferably before you have looked at your devices or had your morning brew. Our minds are at their freshest right when we wake up. Meditating when we are in a baseline state of mind can make a significant difference in how we experience the rest of the day. It is also easier to practice before any major distractions have come our way. Meditation can be difficult and frustrating. The freer you can be from outside stimulus the better, especially when first starting out. As time goes on you will develop stronger skills and meditating will become more a state of mind rather than just a thing you do in the morning. However, regardless of your experience, morning meditations should never go away. Even the most seasoned meditators still meditate when their minds are clearest and are not fooled into thinking they are free of distractions and from the influences of the world around them.
If you are a person who works a night or swing shift, meditating in the morning does not work. Have no fear you can still reap the full benefits of the early risers. The point is that you conduct your practice first thing after waking up when you’re fresh. If your wake up time is 5pm or 11am then that is your time to meditate. The benefits will be the same. Morning is a relative term here for us modern folks and we shouldn’t get too distracted by the technicality of when that time is.
For parents, caregivers or people who have other obligations that make meditating in the morning difficult, consider making those first few minutes in bed before getting up your time to meditate. If this doesn’t work then any spare moment you can find to set aside works. One shouldn’t meditate simply because of timing conflicts. Meditation is too important to your overall well being. If you can only sit for 5 minutes at noon on a Monday then that is when you sit. Morning meditation is ideal, not required.
