The Art of Doing Nothing
Contents
Why You Need to Unplug in a Hyper-Connected World
In our hyper-connected world, unplugging gives us the chance to sort and prioritize. If we take a few minutes to unplug, to sit in meditation, we can gain valuable benefits. While focusing on our breath – because let us be honest, some of us would forget to breathe if it didn’t happen on its own – we give more oxygen to our bodies, including our brain.
This allows us to have more mental clarity and awareness. It gives positive traits and ideas the ability to surface and makes it easier to push negativity aside, both in and out of meditation. And mama, you deserve that peace.
Meditation has wonderful healing benefits as well. We all experience stress in our lives; sometimes even just deciding between cereal at the grocery store can be a stressful experience (why are there so many options?!). Too many choices can be overwhelming rather than freeing.
Meditation can help alleviate that stress and keep our internal systems operating as they should. It can improve sleep, digestion, immunity, hormonal balances, and anxiety. It has also been shown to help people achieve the freedom we seek by helping them to overcome bad habits.
Embracing the Discomfort of Boredom
Boredom – or the act of unplugging – can put us in a place of discomfort, a place we don’t visit often enough. But listen to me, busy lady: That discomfort is where motivation begins and that motivation leads to a more fulfilled life.
It’s okay to feel twitchy at first. Its part of the process.
Let’s Chat, Mama!
What is the one thing keeping you from meditating? Is it time, or just the fear of silence? Drop a comment below and lets figure it out together.
1. Start Small
You dont have to become a monk overnight. Try incorporating 2-3 minutes of meditation a day to start. You can gradually increase the amount of time as you get used to the practice. It’s about progress, not perfection, ladies.
2. Be Mindful
If just sitting and being with your thoughts sounds intimidating, try using the time to set 3 goals for the day, 2 small and 1 big. Or you can use the time to think of 5 things you are thankful for. Gratitude changes everything.
3. Find Time
I had a yoga teacher who practiced meditation for at least 30 minutes a day. Not for you? That’s totally fine! Spend an extra 3 minutes in the shower. Turn off Netflix 15 minutes earlier before bed. Take that time to add some unplugged, mindful moments into your day. You are worth those few minutes.
4. Stay Focused
If you need some guidance in meditation, find an article or a book to read. You can also download the app Headspace, which can help guide you through a meditation to keep you centered and focused. However, no sneaking looks at social media – after all the whole point is to spend the time disconnecting from technology and connecting with yourself!
Adding mindful moments to your day, even if they are small, will give you more clarity and direction. Spend a few minutes doing nothing, creating silence, and your goals, and motivation will soon be louder than ever. You got this!
Join the Conversation
Have you tried any of these tips before? Which one worked for you? Share your journey with us in the comments! We love hearing how you are taking back your time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need to meditate to see results?
Honestly babe, even just 2-3 minutes a day can make a huge difference. You don't need to sit for an hour to feel the benefits of clarity and reduced stress. Start small and let it grow naturally!
What if I get bored while trying to do nothing?
That is actually the point! Boredom creates a little bit of discomfort, which is exactly where creativity and motivation are born. Embrace the boredom, lovely - it's your brain resetting itself.
Can I meditate if I have a busy mind?
Absolutely. If your mind is racing, try focusing on gratitude or setting small goals instead of trying to "empty" your mind. Using an app like Headspace can also help guide you so you aren't just sitting there making grocery lists.
Debbi...:
Awesome job and great advice Sienna!