With Mid-Year Exams fast approaching, a reminder of the benefits of meditation and how it can help during periods of feeling stressed and overwhelmed.  

5 Tips to get started with meditation 

When life is feeling chaotic or your mind is racing, mindfulness aims to help you slow down and reset. One of the many ways you can practice mindfulness is through meditation. 

Starting a meditation practice can feel challenging and overwhelming at first, but in time, it can become incredibly rewarding. This powerful wellbeing tool helps you to feel more relaxed, focused, and resilient. 

Here are five tips to help you get started and make meditation a regular part of your routine: 

  • Find a quiet and comfortable space: Choose a place where you can sit comfortably and undisturbed. This can be a quiet corner in your home, a park bench or even a private space at work. Make sure the space is free from distractions.
  •  Start small: When starting out, it can be helpful to begin with shorter forms of meditation. Even just setting aside a few minutes a day to sit quietly and focus on your breath can have a positive impact on your wellbeing. As you become more comfortable with the practice, you can gradually increase the amount of time you dedicate to meditating. 
  • Consistency: One of the most important things you can do to establish a regular habit is to set a specific time each day to meditate. Whether it’s first thing in the morning or last thing at night, choose a time that works best for you and make it a part of your daily routine. 
  • Keep it simple: There are many different types of meditation, so the most important thing is to find one that works best for you. We suggest guided meditations as a great and easy way to get started with meditation. There are a variety of guided meditations available, from apps on your phone to YouTube videos, which provide a structure for your practice and help you to maintain focus on your mind. 
  • Be kind to yourself: Meditation is a skill that takes time to develop and see the benefits. Don’t be discouraged if you find your mind wandering or if you have trouble staying focused. Be patient and have empathy for yourself while you explore this new practice. Remember that meditation is about being present in the moment and letting go of judgement, including self-judgement. 

By following these tips, you can establish a regular practice that works for you and help you experience the many benefits for your wellbeing. 

 

Mr Sam Johnstone  

Deputy Principal: Pastoral Care and Well-Being 

“Teachers have the right to teach, students have the right to learn, and we all have the right to feel safe” 

Respect: Show courtesy and respect to others. 

Hands off other people and their property. 

Follow all instructions the first time without argument. 

Our College values of Respect, Responsibility, Hospitality, Justice, and Compassion are deeply imbedded in Catholic Teachings and Gospel Values. These are regularly discussed and role-played in Pastoral Care classes in the Middle Years, as a reminder of how we should treat others. I am grateful to be surrounded by so many good people who genuinely for the most part, live out our values. 

 

Ms Maxine Neaton 

Director of Middle Years