During times of social distancing and self-quarantining, it’s easy to let our thoughts get the best of us. We can fall into bad habits like staying up late, sleeping all day, overeating, skipping exercise, or excessive drinking. These behaviors can make us more susceptible to illness. If we remain trapped in our thoughts and worries, we may wait for “perfect conditions” to live our lives.
Meditation allows us to expand our consciousness and go beyond limiting thoughts. It helps us see situations clearly, without attachment or emotion interfering.
Being together at home for long periods without normal daily routines can magnify pre-existing feelings such as anxiety, stress, fear, loneliness, blame, and depression. Constant exposure to information from news, social media, and family can make us feel mentally exhausted, confused, and physically drained. Everyone reacts differently to stress, but maintaining well-being, both mental and physical, is crucial, especially if you are responsible for caring for others. Health experts, including the CDC, recommend meditation as a valuable tool for coping in these times.
How Meditation Helps During the Pandemic
Meditation can be as simple as sitting in a quiet place, taking deep breaths, and focusing on your breathing. You can also join an online meditation class or group, which is highly beneficial during the pandemic. Online groups are often free, provide social interaction, and help you realize you are not alone. For beginners, learning how to start meditating at home can make the experience much more effective.
The old saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” applies today, but only when your mind is clear enough to act. Many of us have said, “If only I had more time, I would do this or that.” Now that we do, it’s the perfect moment to focus on our greatest asset: our mind. Happiness comes from within, and meditation is the best tool to reach it.
Personal Experience: Finding Peace
I feel very lucky to have been a member of Flushing Meditation. I meditate every day, and it has offered me a powerful way to heal, practice self-care, and cope with emotional stress. Meditation has helped me manage emotional trauma, reduce anxiety, and maintain focus throughout the day.
Now, Flushing Meditation has launched a free online meditation series, especially for healthcare and essential workers. Join online every Monday and Friday at 9 PM to unwind, ease your mind, and build resilience.