Let’s Talk Meditation - And Why So Many People Swear By It
Let’s be honest - life can feel like a constant juggle. Between the to-do lists, notifications, family, work, and that voice saying “you should be doing more,” it’s no wonder many of us feel stretched thin.
That’s where meditation comes in.
So what is meditation? No, it’s not just sitting cross-legged in silence (though it can be that) - I used to think that until I did a Meditation course with Pei-Jiun at Mind Heart Body Centre. In her 4-session workshop, we explored various types of meditation over the course of the weeks, including walking meditation and mindful eating, among others.
So, my thoughts now? Meditation is about finding a moment to breathe, reset, and reconnect with yourself. It’s a practice - something you return to, even when your mind wanders (and it will). The beauty of meditation is that it meets you exactly where you are. Recently, I find myself taking stock whilst on train rides. I know it’s when I get 20 mins of uninterrupted time to think!
What Are the Benefits of Meditation?
1. Less Stress, More Clarity
Studies have shown that meditation reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone), helping to lower anxiety and improve resilience. Even 10 minutes a day can create a noticeable shift in how you feel.
2. Better Focus
Regular meditation strengthens your attention span and helps quiet mental clutter. It’s like a workout for your mind, training it to return to the present moment.
3. Emotional Regulation
Meditation helps you become less reactive and more responsive. When you build awareness of your thoughts and feelings, you’re less likely to get swept away by them.
4. Improved Sleep
Mindfulness practices help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, your body’s rest-and-digest mode,- making it easier to fall (and stay) asleep.
5. Greater Self-Compassion
One of the unexpected gifts of meditation is a gentler relationship with yourself. With regular practice, you start to notice your inner critic and replace judgment with kindness.
Famous Faces Who Meditate
If you’ve ever doubted the power of meditation, take a look at who swears by it:
Oprah Winfrey: A longtime advocate for meditation, Oprah has incorporated it into her daily routine for years and even offers guided meditations with Deepak Chopra.
LeBron James, one of the most successful athletes in the world, credits meditation with helping him stay mentally strong during high-pressure moments.
Arianna Huffington, the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, openly talks about how meditation changed her life after a significant health scare due to burnout.
Paul McCartney: Yes, even Beatles legends meditate. Paul has practised Transcendental Meditation since the 1960s and continues to advocate for it today.
Emma Watson: The actress and activist has shared how meditation and mindfulness help her manage anxiety and stay grounded in a fast-paced industry.
How to Get Started
If you’re new to meditation, start small. Even one minute of intentional breathing can make a difference. You might try:
Guided meditation apps like Insight Timer, Headspace, or Calm - reach out and I’ll let you know who I like to listen to!
Breathwork: Try inhaling for 4 counts, holding for 4, and exhaling for 6 - I find this one great when I need a quick reset during my day!
Walking meditation: Take a quiet stroll, focusing only on your steps and your breath - I use this to center myself when moving from one location to another!
Final Thoughts
Meditation isn’t about getting it right. It’s about coming back - again and again - with kindness. Meditation is a quiet invitation inward in a world that constantly pulls us outward. It helps us pause, breathe, and remember that we’re already enough.
And honestly, who couldn’t use a little more peace?
