Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Start Meditating
By Genevieve Cunningham
There's something about summer that makes it different than any other time of year. Of course there's the weather and the excessive sunshine and the longer days. But there's something else to it as well -- a feeling that is specific to the summer months. While a lot of people use this time of year to relax or unwind before the hustle and bustle of fall, it's also a great time to start something new. Something like a new exercise program or a healthy new diet. Or if you want something extremely simple and yet powerful -- why not meditation? If you've previously given thought to putting meditation into your life, take a look at why the summertime might be the perfect time to get it started.
The Weather Is Your Friend
It doesn't matter whether you decide to meditate indoors or outdoors, getting out of bed in the freezing cold is never fun. And since a lot of meditation happens first thing in the morning, you should plan to begin the habit when the weather is tolerable -- or even when it's enjoyable. The summer weather is perfect for rolling out of bed, sitting on a mat, and meditating for a few minutes. You won't shiver your way through. You won't dread getting out of bed. And if you decide to go outside, the weather will be your friend through the hardest part of beginning a meditation habit.
Schedules Are Flexible
Summer schedules are often more flexible than at any other time of year. The world is a bit more relaxed. And this is especially true if you have a family. The summer might mean that your kids sleep in a little longer, which gives you more time for yourself. If flexibility in time is an important part of making meditation a habit, use the season to get moving in the right direction.
Stress Levels Are Lower
Because of the more flexible schedules and general carefree vibe of summer, stress levels tend to be a little lower in the summer. And here's the thing: Meditation is hard at first. The more stress you have, the harder it is to sit still and clear the mind. Take advantage of having a little less stress. It'll be less mental weight to put down. Less worries to deal with on a regular basis. And by making meditation a habit now, it may help you prevent excessive stress from plaguing you as the year passes by.
Meditation is an excellent way to improve your mental and physical health. The benefits attached to the practice are numerous and growing. Why not give it a try? Take advantage of the summer months, put your free time to good use, and build a habit that can help you now as well as long into the future.
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