Stop the "mind chatter" with meditation

From time to time we all have those voices in our heads that just wont stop talking. We may have a negative thought pattern repeatedly playing through our minds or even a worry that just won't go away. This is what I like to call "mind chatter". Mind chatter is something that can prevent us from sleeping at night or just plain old being a nuisance to us during the day. However, there is a way to stop this so called mind chatter. The remedy I like to use is something called meditation. Meditation is a practice that has been used since ancient times. Meditation has been useful in achieving states of complete enlightenment (a.k.a. nirvana in the Buddhist tradition) and in some cases mental wellness.

Where to start.

First, one must recognize that mind chatter is present. For example, if you have a continuous nagging thought, stop and recognize it. One must realize that the redundant thought is impeding on a person's thought process and basic physical needs (i.e. sleep). Next step is to find a quiet and comfortable spot to begin the meditation. This may be in your bedroom, a library, or somewhere quiet outdoors. The key is to pick a place that you won't be interrupted for at least 20-30min. If you are addicted to your cell phone just take a moment to put your phone on silent. Hide it in a place where you won't be tempted to pick it up. Just make sure you put it in a spot where you can remember to find it.

Meditation Adjuvants

This part is optional, you may also create an environment that will enhance the peacefulness of your meditation spot. You can play some music, either classical or sounds of nature, the music of Michele Bodine is often a good choice. You can light some aromatherapy candles, burn incense, or use essential oils on pulse points to help with meditation. Lavender is a favorite of mine. Gemstones also help, usually amethyst and rose quartz stones are good to use when meditating. They give off a subtle energy that help to relax the mind and the heart, respectively. These suggestions may be combined and are optional. Good old peace and quiet works just as well.

Meditation Time

To begin the meditation, get yourself into a comfortable position, either sitting or laying down. Close your eyes and begin to slowly breathe in and out. Focus on your breathing and recognize any sort of tension in your body. Any tension that you notice in your body just allow it to be released. After your body has acclimated into the meditation, focus on your mind. Recognize any sort of "mind chatter" that may be nagging at you. Recognize the negative thoughts, worries, or your "to do" list that are running through your mind. With each exhale, release the chatter from your mind. Let the thought drift from your mind and have it go into thin air. As you do this you may want to envision the thought as a feather that is just floating away into the air. Repeat this until you feel that the "mind chatter" has stopped and your mind feels refreshed.

When mentally ready you can open your eyes and reflect on what you experienced. You can compare how you felt before to how you feel at the moment post meditation. Hopefully you will notice that your mind is far less "noisy" than before and more relaxed. Don't be discouraged if it hasn't completely taken away all of the "mind chatter", it takes some practice. The more you practice the easier it will get. I recommend using this technique when in need of mental quieting. Life is too short to be worrying about the things around us, just relax and enjoy it!