Meditation Doesn't Have to Look Like Meditation
- Corena Hammer
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
I think meditation has a branding problem.
The word itself makes people picture somebody sitting perfectly still on a cushion with their eyes closed trying not to think.
Honestly, that sounds miserable to a lot of people.
I've had people tell me, "I can't meditate because my mind won't stop." I get that... whose mind does? Mine certainly didn't when I first began, and there are times that, even after years of having a dedicated practice, I can't get there.
The goal was never to become a person who thinks about nothing. If anything, I've found meditation is more about gently practicing becoming aware that I'd rather come back to myself for a few minutes. I might drift, then come back to a quiet, grounded center.
That's a very different experience than trying to "not think".
For some people, sitting quietly is exactly what they need, yet someone else, it feels awful.
There are actually studies suggesting that certain forms of still, internally focused meditation can be contraindicated for people with significant dissociation or unresolved trauma.
Asking someone to immediately close their eyes and spend twenty minutes inside themselves isn't always regulating. Sometimes it does exactly the opposite.
That's one of the reasons I wish we would broaden the conversation around meditation.
Some of the best meditation I've ever had happened while walking.
No destination. No step count. Just walking slowly enough that I could actually feel my feet touching the ground again.
There are times when I practice meditation, not mindfulness, gently rocking from one foot to the other while taking a few slower breaths.
Nobody would even know I was "meditating."
That type of meditation counts too. ;)
I think we've accidentally made meditation another thing people feel like they're failing. The irony is that the whole purpose was to return to yourself.
Life has been asking a lot from people lately and a few minutes of meditation done in a way that works for you can make a world of difference. That's why I recorded this meditation.
It's only 7 minutes, which surprisingly can be enough to ground and clear yourself again.
If you've never had a meditation practice, this doesn't require one! You don't have to clear your mind or sit perfectly still. There isn't even a way to do it "right." Just begin wherever you are today. You can walk or sit, it's up to you.
The goal is to clear your mind so you feel more grounded and ready for your day. However you get there is perfect ;) Thinking about the training? Click Here
Research Notes
Trauma-sensitive mindfulness and why inward-focused meditation can be difficult for trauma survivors:
Meditation-related adverse effects, including dysregulated arousal and dissociation:
Mindfulness-based treatments for PTSD overview:
Walking meditation and reduced psychological stress symptoms:
Brief walking and meditation both improving mood state:
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