WELLNESS
Psychologies wellness director – mindfulness expert and yoga teacher Ali Roff Farrar – shares expert advice and holistic ideas for an inspiring new year...
Mindful routine
Struggling to fit meditation into your day? Set up your new year meditation goals with these tips from personal growth expert Vishen Lakhiani, who shares six steps to incorporate meditation into your daily routine. Based on his own practice, The 6 Phase Meditation, he says: ‘Meditation is simpler than many believe – all you need is yourself, somewhere comfortable to sit, and 20 minutes.’ Ready? Let’s start at the beginning...
●Approach with fresh eyes Throw away what you thought you knew about meditation. Dive in as if it’s your first time.
●Choose the ideal time Timing isn’t just a detail; it’s a fundamental part of your meditation practice. ‘I like mornings,’ says Lakhiani, ‘as it sets a tone of calm and intention, not just for yourself, but those you interact with throughout your day.’
●Communicate your meditation needs to others It’s a good idea to let whoever you live with know when and where you’ll be practicing meditation, and politely ask them not to disturb you.
●Choose a place to practice ‘My personal preference is to sit upright in bed as soon as I rise,’ says Lakhiani. ‘Whatever you choose, make sure your spine remains straight and relaxed, and your head is unrestricted. If you lie down, you might drift into sleep.’
●Movement Don’t suffer through any form of discomfort during meditation in the name of doing it ‘properly’. Feel free to move when you need to.
●When your thoughts wander… The 6 Phase Meditation is a gift for minds that wander – unlike other practices, it doesn’t discourage thinking, but channels it to benefit overall wellbeing.
It’s not just about clearing the mind, but transforming thoughts into actions.
Access The 6 Phase Meditation on the Mindvalley app, or listen to The 6 Phase Guided Meditation for free on the Mindvalley Youtube channel
Turmeric and chilli kimchi
