Finding Stillness With the Help of Technology
Chances are, someone has recommended meditation to you at some point. While the practice itself is far from new, it’s gained widespread attention as scientific research continues to validate its many benefits.
At first, it’s easy to dismiss. Maybe it sounds boring, or you worry you won’t be “good” at it. Perhaps you’re stressed that carving out time for meditation feels impossible. But here’s the truth: if any of that resonates with you, then meditation is exactly what you need.
In a world that’s always on and constantly overstimulated, incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
Benefits of Meditation
How to Get Started
Get educated! Learn about what you’re getting into before you start.
One of my favorite books on meditation for beginners is “The Buddha Walks into a Bar.” The book takes a down to earth approach to meditation for the modern day human in western society.
"The Buddha Walks into a Bar is a book for those who are spiritual but not religious, who are disillusioned by the state of the world, who are sick of their jobs (and just started last Tuesday), who like drinking beer and having sex and hate being preached at, who are striving to deepen their social interactions beyond the digital realms of Twitter and Facebook. This is Buddhism presented to a generation leaving the safe growth spurts of college and entering a turbulent and uncertain work force.”
If you’re more of a visual learner, consider watching the Netflix special “Headspace Guide to Meditation.” Click here to watch the trailer.
Utilizing Technology for Stillness
The constant bombardment of screens has presented us with as many problems as luxuries. Overuse of technology has been said to be the culprit of overstimulation, stress, anxiety and disconnect. While eliminating devices completely is not an option for many of us, we can consider using our technology to encourage healthy habits.
A piece of technology that I have found helpful in maintaining a mediation practice is meditation apps! Popular options include: Simple Habit, Headspace and Calm .
What I Love About Meditation Apps
Guided meditations with specific topics— There are guided mediations for sleep, fear of flying, job interviews, grief etc.
The meditations vary in length— There are meditations from 3 minutes to 20+ minutes long.
They’re interactive— Theres a way to track the number of minutes you've meditated in a week to help you stay motivated.
There's a social component— You can encourage your friends to meditate that day if you see that they haven't.
Unguided meditation option— When you feel ready, there are options for unguided meditations, many with instrumental or nature sounds.
Worry free— You don’t have to worry about keeping track of time, meditation apps do it for you.
If you’re new to the practice, apps can be a great way to get you started. While many of them have free versions, I find they are best when paid as a monthly service. With all of the health benefits, it’s worth a try! You might even find that you desire meditation without the help of technology once you find a groove. Until then, baby steps!
Kecia Fox is a Licensed acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner at Well Forest Acupuncture in Portland, Oregon, specializing in holistic wellness and chronic pain and stress.