The benefits of meditation are worth the effort though. Meditation reduces stress, improves concentration, increases self-awareness, happiness and acceptance, slows aging and boosts the immune system, and much more. And this past week I was assured by my friend Kim McNeil, a Certified Yoga Therapist and Meditation Expert, that if you’re doing it, you’re doing it right.

So it really is about simply giving it a try, and staying open-minded as you practice. Like anything worth doing, meditation requires a bit of skill, and therefore a bit of practice. It makes sense intuitively, but I can be impatient.

I started with the App Headspace, which simplified things for me. Sit, press play on the days’ meditation, and listen as you’re talked through what to do. You get your first ten days for free, and then it’s a small monthly fee to access their whole meditation library, but it’s vast and includes guided meditations to help things like stress, focus, relationships, happiness and more.

Another that I like is called Insight Timer. It’s free and includes guided and unguided sessions, and a whole bunch of background sounds to meditate to. I use both apps, and also try app-less, and just sit and breathe. I’m still learning how to just be, but it’s turning into a good way to start the day.

So, why not give it a try? And if you’re a happy meditator, share with me what works for you. I’d love to know your secrets!