Contrary to popular belief, meditation doesn't always mean sitting in lotus pose with your eyes closed. In fact, most people are unaware that you can practice meditation virtually anywhere -- sitting still is not a requirement.
The true beauty of meditation lies in the fact that you can make your practice perfectly suited to your personal needs. The benefits are also undeniable: Studies show the practice can prevent disease and reduce inflammation, be an effective form of treating depression and increase happiness levels. It is even thought to prevent signs of aging in the brain.
Everyone can take advantage of meditation's perks, regardless of whether or not they want to sit in one place. Below are five types of meditation you can do on the move:
The psychological and physical benefits of Qigong include pain relief, anxiety reduction and an increase in stability. Moreover, you'll get the added benefits of meditation, which will improve your quality of life overall.
When you're moving through sun salutations or trying a challenging new pose, your mind is focused and clear. This type of concentration is also one of the goals of meditation, so it's easy to combine these two practices into one. Additionally, the ultimate objective of meditation is relaxation -- and if you ask us, coming out of child's pose is about as calming as it gets.
The most important thing is to be in the moment during your walk -- don't let the stresses of life cloud your thoughts and break your focus. Plus, the exercise is one of the easiest ways to stay physically healthy.
However, most people practice Tai Chi as a way to get moving and participate in a calming ritual. Moving with intention is a great way to focus your thoughts -- a form of meditation in its own right.
Spend some time in nature and focus on the present to give your brain a boost and improve your mood. It's a powerful combination with more benefits than you might realize.
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