Meditation FAQ's
What Type of Meditation Services Do You Offer?
I facilitate live, guided meditations for individuals or groups as well as create pre-recorded meditations, personalized guided meditations and I write meditation scripts as well.
What Is Meditation?
Basic meditation is really just becoming aware and getting to know yourself and all the things that are expressed through you. You’re observing your breath, thoughts…sensations…outside stimuli…etc. But you are doing it without judgment, without identifying with it, without making up a story about the things you observe. You are just allowing everything to be.
Of course, there are different types of guided meditation that have specific goals too.
What Are The Benefits of Meditating?
Did you know that even the Mayo Clinic recognizes the benefits of meditation? There are so many benefits of meditation, but I will list a handful: Reduction of symptoms related to health issues, Stress reduction, Better decision making, Increased ability to focus, Increased creativity, Increased patience and tolerance, better sleep quality, Improved immune response and Improved self-awareness which leads to deeper self-realization…the list could go on and on!
How Can I Find Time To Meditate?
Meditation doesn’t have to take a long time at all. A few minutes can be a really good amount to start with and you can do that on the toilet if you can’t find any other time! But the reality is, most of us leak time out of our seams all day long by scrolling through social media, watching movies, and various others methods of entertainment, and there is nothing wrong with any of that. But, if we have time for those things, we have time to meditate.
You can also turn everything you do into a meditation...cooking, gardening, walking...anything, when you are being fully conscious, aware and present when you are doing it, is meditation.
Where Should I Go to Meditate?
If you are using a daily activity as meditation, you don't need to do anything or go anywhere except be conscious, aware and present. If you are new to meditation and want to do a more classic version of it, go somewhere that is relatively quiet and peaceful. The more practice you have with meditating, the easier it should be to do it anywhere no matter how much distraction is around you.
What Should I Wear to Meditate?
Whatever makes you feel the most comfortable and does not restrict blood flow, breathing, or pinch nerves.
How Should I Position My Body During Meditation?
If you are meditating in the more classic sense of the term, and are new to it, the most recommended position is to sit upright in a firm chair, feet flat on the ground, hands resting on your thighs, in a way that your muscles can relax. However, you can sit in whatever position makes you feel the least amount of tension. Personally, I prefer to sit in a lotus position on the floor with a firm meditation pillow under me.
What If I Fall Asleep?
That must mean your body needs some rest! Use it as a sign that your body is asking you to take better care of itself. But, if you want to make sure not to fall asleep, sitting upright is the best way to keep yourself awake.
Is There a Special Way I Should Breathe?
Just breathe naturally unless you are doing meditation specific to breath work.
What Type of Meditation Is The Best?
Whatever type of meditation is sustainable and makes you feel the best is the right one for you! The only way you will know, is to try some different styles to see.
How Long/Often Should I Meditate?
Doing your daily tasks in a meditative state means you will meditate often. But if you are wanting a specific time set aside for only meditation and no busy tasks, this depends on your lifestyle, schedule, and what you are trying to achieve. There really is no “should”. But, the more frequently you can practice meditation, the better you will get at it and the more results you will see. If you are just starting out, try just a few minutes at a time each day and build up to what feels optimal for you.
How Long Until I Notice Benefits From Meditating Regularly?
This really depends on how dedicated you are to the practice, how consistent you are and how well you can come into a state of allowing. Comparing yourself to others will not help. Even that can be a good meditation practice, allowing the comparison mindset to float away on the winds of non-judgment.
Am I “Supposed” to Feel Something When I Meditate?
There is no "supposed to" in meditation. Some people don’t feel a single thing, especially right away. Some people feel a deep sense of calm. Others have visual imagery, auditory and emotional experiences. Try to let go of any expectations of what you think you should be feeling or experiencing during meditation because it really isn’t helpful.
A Lot of Emotion Comes Up While I Meditate, Why?
If you experience heightened emotional states while meditating, it’s because you are at last letting yourself get into a state where your mind and body can relax enough to recognize what is coming up. Many times, as we go through our days, certainly if we lead busy lives, we tend to stuff our emotions down or ignore them, especially the less pleasant ones. During meditation, as we become more familiar with ourselves and with our thoughts, things that we haven’t fully processed will bubble up to the surface so that we can experience, integrate and heal. Sometimes one meditation session is all we need to heal something fully, but many times, especially for old wounds, they may come up over and over again until they are fully integrated.
If you have any other questions, please contact me HERE!
Disclaimer: I am not a medical or mental health professional. Any media, information or products associated with April Ann Roy are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure you and are meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. Seek professional help for any physical or mental health issues. Use any information or products at your own risk.