I’ve always been one of those people who listens to music when I’m doing homework. Even as I write this article, I have my headphones in and a Spotify study playlist going. But it’s kind of amazing how helpful silence can be. Not just around you, but in your mind. To just stop, sit, and relax for ten minutes can make you feel like a new person. Meditation is a great way to accomplish that. It also gives your yoga mat another use besides laying down in “corpse” pose (we both know you’re just napping on it anyway).
The earliest records of meditation in history have roots in the Hindu religion and over the past few decades, the practice has slowly traveled across cultures. Today, the practice can be embraced by anyone trying to gain some mindfulness in their life. Mindfulness simply means being aware of yourself: your body, your thoughts, your breath; it’s a mental state where you are completely in the present.
Let me tell you, mindfulness feels good. But it takes practice.
I knew my journey into meditation would need some guidance, and while I would love to participate in the noon meditation classes offered on campus, I just don’t have the time. I needed a structured program that would work with my schedule and my needs. There are plenty of free sources online with guided meditation options on sites like YouTube or Calm.com. But again, I’m a busy collegiette that needed something that could go wherever I needed to go.
Lo and behold, I find the app “Headspace.” It works both on your phone and on your desktop with a free 10-day program called “Take 10.” The program introduces you to the practice of mindfulness with guided exercises and fun animations to explain what this whole mediation thing is about. Plus, the instructor has an accent and that’s always a bonus.
I’m only seven days into the “Take 10” program, but I already feel calmer during my day. Headspace suggests doing these exercises first thing in the morning, feeding your brain just like you do with your tummy at breakfast. However, since I’m living that nine a.m. struggle, I prefer to do my 10 minutes of mind crunches during my lunch break or before I go to bed. It’s soothing to simply stop thinking, even for just a moment, and focus on the present moment. I’ve noticed I go into my afternoon classes and work with a sharper mind, and it’s easier to focus. If I do the program before bed, I fall into a deeper sleep than normal, which is always helpful for that beauty sleep. Headspace recommends doing the exercises at the same time every day, but I like having the ability to do it whenever I just need a little break.
Yes, I probably have to finish reading that book for English and should probably check BlackBoard. I probably should check Facebook to see if it’s my obscure second-cousin’s-husband’s-sister’s birthday. Yes, I still need to finish that job application for this summer and complete my scholarship application essays. When were those due again? Am I wearing pants? Did I forget to breathe? Now this is why I need those 10 minutes.
Take 10 today, collegiettes. You deserve it!
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