Thank you, WordPress, for this interesting daily prompt.
One habit that brings me joy is meditation. I tend to do it in the morning – first thing – but also have had situations where I would do it in the afternoon, and before going to sleep. Rather, to make myself sleep.
Many types of meditation exist but I usually choose from a plethora of available meditation tracks from the Insight Timer. Been using that service since 2016.
If we were to break down even further… Grounding meditation, inner child, prayer, gratitude, anxiety, loving kindness, breath work, I do them all. It all depends on my mental and spiritual needs at a given moment. But all meditation that I do involves some kind of visualization and it is never silent. I lean toward 10 to 15 minute sessions.
In the mornings, I do favor a “morning meditation” which is a bit more energizing, may involve some affirmations and setting intention(s) for the day. That is part of my Golden hour practice. Evening types are usually labelled clearly on Insight Timer with words like “sleep”, “end-of-day”, “relaxing” or “nidra”. I also do archangel meditation. I am not Christian but I enjoy visualizing the four archangels, their corresponding colors, and what they can aid in.
I have done meditation on planes and trains. I have done it with my eyes open while supervising students in a cafeteria or while taking a walk. I have meditated inside and outside. Do prefer to do it inside, in my living room, sitting cross-legged on the couch.
What about the kids?… L comes down the stairs in the morning and I say to her “mom needs to meditate.” She takes her crayons and markers and starts drawing next to me. She knows that this is part of my life and no questions or requests are allowed if I am meditating. R doesn’t wake up that early 🙂
Benefits… Meditation has not filled my life with rainbows and unicorns but it provided balance and perspective. I feel it helps me with being less reactionary and more appreciative with the things I have. And to me, joy is directly connected to feeling balanced in life.
What about you? What habit brings you joy?
Mom of Children 