As we age, it becomes increasingly evident that maintaining mental and emotional well-being is of the utmost importance. Finding effective methods to reduce stress becomes increasingly important as life becomes increasingly complex and challenging.
Meditation offers a holistic approach to stress relief, promoting mental clarity, and enhancing overall well-being. For those in their fifties and beyond, embracing meditation as part of their daily regimen can spark a journey toward inner peace and tranquility.
This article discusses five meditation styles specifically designed to relieve stress in those over fifty. As an older adult, you will benefit from these different meditation styles, each of which offers unique techniques and benefits to help you cope with life's stressors more easily and resiliently.
Related: 6 Original and Enjoyable Meditation Techniques
Among the most popular meditation approaches, mindfulness meditation focuses on developing awareness. The core practice involves sitting with closed eyes and anchoring attention to the breath when the mind wanders. This form of meditation encourages paying attention to feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations without imposing judgment.
Additionally, mindfulness meditation promotes positive stimulation of your brain. Just as muscles develop strength through consistent training, regular practice of mindfulness helps strengthen the attention and awareness faculties of our brain. Practicing this meditation beforehand helps us to be able to apply it effectively during stressful situations, allowing us to regain inner balance, preserve serenity, and regain our focus on the present moment.
In this method, muscle groups are gradually tensed and then released throughout the body, usually from the feet upwards. This exercise improves mental peace and helps relieve physical stress.
Experts recommend beginning with your feet. Take note of their sensations, whether you feel anything or not, then contract and hold for five seconds before releasing. Repeat this process for other muscle groups in the body. After cycling through all the muscles, many experience a wave of relaxation and tranquility spreading through their body. This time is ideal for deeper meditation and contemplation for a few minutes or even an hour.
At times, finding relief from stress requires embracing movement. Experts recommend expressive meditation, commonly known as "shaking and dancing." This technique proves particularly beneficial when one is feeling mentally stuck or seeking to boost serotonin levels.
Thoughts such as "I'm inadequate" or "Nothing goes my way" can engulf us, resulting in physical discomfort and low spirits. According to experts, engaging in active meditation can disrupt these negative thought patterns and promote a more positive emotional state. It serves as an excellent practice to invigorate oneself in the morning or during moments of restlessness when a focused meditation, like breath observation, feels challenging.
For those looking for extra help, guided meditation is the best option, especially for beginners or those who struggle with attention in other meditation techniques. It helps the practitioner enter a state of deep relaxation and heightened awareness by allowing them to let go of control. Usually, either a live instructor or recorded guidance directs the meditation process.
Related: 9 Effective Tips to Stay Awake While You Meditate
Experts recommend incorporating yogic sleep into your sleep routine if you wish to feel extra relaxed. The practice promotes deep relaxation and reduces stress by allowing you to engage in deep meditative sleep while lying down, usually accompanied by a guided meditation.
