Meditation is a great way to start your day. It helps you focus, be more in control of your emotions, and lessens your feelings of worry and anxiety. Whether it’s in the form of prayer or neutral silence, you will benefit from quiet me-time. To help you begin this healthy habit, here are a few tips that you can follow.

1. Wear comfortable clothing.
Meditation allows energy to move freely through you. It aims to fill you with breath, and lets your blood flow without constriction. This is why it is important to wear clothing that won’t restrain any part of your body. Wear something lose, so you can comfortably sit in for long moments.

2. Don’t be too full or too hungry.
Trying to meditate when you’re full will only make you sleepy, while doing so when you’re hungry will make you focus on your empty stomach, which defeats the entire purpose. If you wish to meditate first thing in the morning, try having a glass of milk or a banana to mildly break your fast. You can have your full meal after meditating if you wish.

3. Find your quiet place.
Look for a quiet, comfortable spot that doesn't have distractions. Some meditate on the floor while facing the wall in order to help them clear their minds, but it’s really up to you where you want to do it.

4. Be mindful of all the parts of your body.
Close your eyes, and start mentally moving through your body from head to toe. Focus and have each part relax. Take your time. If there are certain points where you feel pain, simply accept them and calmly bid them to loosen up.

5. Focus on your breathing.
Now zone in on your breathing. Breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Be aware of the rise and fall of your chest. Breathe at your own pace.

6. Resign yourself to the flow of thoughts.
Your mind is in constant chatter. One thought will easily move to the next. There is no need to force it to go blank. Instead, let your mind move through these thoughts, accepting them before letting them go. With each thought that comes and goes, gently lead your mind back to your breathing.

7. Gradually return to the present.
After giving yourself enough time to be silent, gradually return to where you are. Be aware of the chair you sit in, of the feel of your clothes, and of the sounds outside your window. Keep with you that sense of serenity, and when you’re ready, slowly open your eyes.

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