Meditation lowers stress, improves mental clarity, improves immunity and metabolism and helps your have better quality sleep. Studies have shown time and time again the growing benefits of this practice…so why don’t we do it? For one thing, starting your meditation practice can be daunting; it’s not easy but it’s worth it. So we’ve put together useful tools, classes and resources to help you ease into, jump start or re-start your meditation practice.

Set the stage

Meditating in the morning is a great way to set the tone for your day. Create a special space in your home to meditate. It should be somewhere that is quiet and in some way separate from the work/life area of your home. You can do this just by lighting a candle or some incense, and removing clutter. By creating a small space where you won’t be disturbed, you can just focus on the act of meditation.

But be flexible

While the ideal situation may be to start your day with a meditation in your special nook, sometimes life gets in the way. If you don’t have time or forge, that’s ok! You can squeeze in a five-minute meditation virtually anywhere – you home, your office, standing in line at Sweetgreen – and still reap major benefits.

Apps

Regardless of where you meditate, it is helpful to have a guide. If you are new to meditation we recommend easing in with a guided session. Headspace offers ten free, ten-minute guided meditations that help you create the patterns you need for your practice. Another great app is Calm, which provides soothing nature sounds and white noise to help you focus in on your breath.

Classes

Sometimes we need in-person instruction – and accountability – of a class. If you are in New York, check out MNDFL. They offer both classes for guided meditations and open drop-in times where you can reserve a meditation pillow and do your own thing. If you’re in LA, check out Unplug Meditation for classes and workshops.

No matter what shape your practice takes, know that each time will offer new challenges – and new rewards.

Do you have a meditation practice? What works for you?

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Kalaki Riot

Kalaki Riot is a lifestyle brand that is committed to finding balance in the things people own and in their lives. Read our lifestyle tips to a more balanced you on the KR Edit, shop kalakiriot.com, or follow @kalakiriot on Instagram.

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