In the hustle and bustle of student life, it’s no surprise that many feel overwhelmed and anxious. The student journey can be turbulent, with a plethora of challenges ranging from academic pressures such as GPA to social dynamics. However, amidst the chaos, there lies a serene oasis waiting to be discovered—meditation.

What is Meditation?

Meditation is a practice that invites individuals to engage in a state of deep relaxation and heightened awareness. It involves training the mind to focus on the present moment through techniques such as mindful breathing, visualization, or mantra repetition. 

Meditation encourages gentle acknowledgment and acceptance of thoughts, emotions, and sensations as they arise rather than seeking to empty the mind. Students can develop a sense of inner peace, clarity, and connection by cultivating this nonjudgmental awareness. 

Meditation is not about escaping reality but rather about embracing it fully and with greater clarity. It offers a sanctuary amidst the chaos of daily life, allowing individuals to tap into their inner reservoirs of calm and wisdom.

Why Should Students Meditate?

In the peaceful empire of meditation, students can find comfort and empowerment. Here’s why it’s a practice worth embracing:

Stress reduction

Meditation helps reduce stress by focusing on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. This practice is mainly beneficial for students who are often overwhelmed by academic pressures and extracurricular activities. 

To meditate for stress reduction, students must start focusing on breathing and observing thoughts as they drift through the mind without judgment. This technique helps them be aware of how they are feeling without getting absorbed in their thoughts, thus reducing stress and anxiety.

Enhanced focus and concentration

Meditation can significantly improve focus and concentration by training the mind to stay present and reduce distractions. This is crucial for students’ academic success and productivity. 

Focused meditation, where attention is focused on an object, sound, or sensation, can be particularly effective. This type of meditation helps maintain focus for longer periods and improves emotional regulation, which is essential for managing distractions and staying on task.

Boosted creativity

Creativity is a prized asset in academia and beyond. Meditation nurtures a relaxed awareness that can foster creativity and innovation. Students can tap into this state to approach problems with fresh perspectives and imaginative solutions. 

Self-discovery

University is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s also a journey of self-discovery. Meditation provides students with a pathway to self-awareness and introspection, enabling them to uncover their passions, values, and purpose.

A Beginner’s Steps to Meditation

For those who have always been intrigued by meditation but do not know where or how to start, I’ve created a step-by-step guide. Meditation is very simple and comes easily with practice.

Step One | Find a Quiet and Comfortable Environment.

  • Once you have found a place where you can meditate without interruption, put away any distracting electronics and dim the lights.
  • You can sit on the floor or in a chair, preferably with your feet on the ground and your back straight. However, if you are more comfortable lying down, you are more than welcome to do so.
  • There is no one way to meditate.

Step Two | Close your eyes.

  • Take a moment to close your eyes and relax your body.
  • Remain still and let your body become loose and less tense.

Step Three | Find your breath.

  • Now that you’re starting to relax, become aware of your breath. Feel the sensation of breathing.
  • Focus on your breath as you inhale and exhale deeply. Feel the air passing in through your nose and out through your mouth. Notice your chest expanding and contracting.
  • Be aware of physical sensations throughout your body.

Step Four | Do not try to stop thinking.

  • In the beginning stages of meditation, it is normal to have a lot of ‘chatter’ in your head. You may feel a plethora of thoughts racing about.
  • Do not actively try to stop thinking, or you’ll defeat the purpose of quieting your mind by giving it another task.
  • Allow your thoughts to flow through your mind. Like a river, they will continue flowing if you don’t try to stop them. Acknowledge your thoughts and know that they are there, but do not engage them. Let one thought flow to the next.
  • Return back to the focus on your breath. Whenever you find yourself drifting away, return and find your breath.

Step Five | Calm your mind and focus.

  • You can either continue to focus on the breath or use a mantra such as “Aum” or a prayer that you are used to.
  • Maintain focus on either your breath or mantra.

Step Six | Practice

  • You can end your meditation whenever you feel fit. The minimum recommended time is 15 minutes, but results can still be seen with less.
  • Do not be discouraged if you found it difficult the first few times. It may take a week or more for your mind to break habits that are as old as you.
  • Continue to practice every day, and I promise that you will feel the results.

It’s best to start meditation with a guided audio track to help you focus before you learn to meditate on your own.

Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What is the best time of day to meditate for students?

There isn’t a universal best time; it depends on personal preference and schedule. Some find mornings energizing, while others prefer evenings to unwind.

Can I meditate even if I’m not spiritual or religious?

Absolutely! Meditation can be secular and is accessible to people of all backgrounds. It’s about training the mind and cultivating awareness, irrespective of beliefs.

How long does it take to see the benefits of meditation?

Results vary, but some experience benefits like reduced stress and improved focus within a few weeks of consistent practice. Patience and regularity are key.

Can I meditate if I have a busy schedule?

Yes, meditation can be adapted to fit any schedule. Even a few minutes of practice daily can yield benefits. It’s about prioritizing mental well-being amidst the hustle.

Is meditation a replacement for therapy or medical treatment?

While meditation can complement therapy and medical treatment, it’s not a substitute for professional help. It can enhance mental well-being but should not replace necessary medical interventions for mental health conditions.