Day Twelve’s Challenge:
Meditate.

Do you meditate? That’s today’s challenge: resolve to meditate daily. If you are not already meditating, commit to spending five minutes (yes, just five minutes to start), sitting quietly and breathing. Remember the breathing exercise from day 3? You can use that breathing technique or one of the ones described in the breathing worksheet. If your mind starts to wander, focus on the counts of the breathing exercise. As you relax, say aloud or to yourself, your self-care proclamations. As meditation becomes a habit (yes, another challenge that should be added to your daily routine!), increase the amount of time you dedicate to this practice. As thoughts come into your head, acknowledge them and move on. Try not to judge or spend much time with them. You can always refocus by concentrating on breathing or saying your proclamations.

Many people find the mere thought of meditation intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. I had the pleasure of spending the day with Melissa Escaro, author of In10tions: A Mindset Reset Guide to Happiness, yesterday. Her book is perfect for someone who wants to try meditation and doesn’t know where to start. With 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes in the evening, Melissa guides you through 90 days of in10tions. Even though I’ve been meditating for a while, I can’t wait to get started on focused intentions; I think it’s going to take my meditation practice to a new level.

I encourage you all to take the plunge and try meditation – for at least 5 minutes a day – for the rest of the 30 Day Self-Care Challenge. It takes practice! Don’t be discouraged and keep trying.

Related articles:
Meditation: When Your Mind Races Faster
Meditation Tips for Beginner
What is Meditation?

Previous Day’s Challenge: Watch a Movie   Next Day’s Challenge: De-clutter
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