I was waking up too many mornings feeling lethargic and anxious [1], so after listening to a million wellness podcasts, I decided that it was time to try meditation again. [2] I say again because I tried it a few years ago. I used Headspace, a meditation app, [3] but the mistake I made was that I would do it first thing in the morning, as in before I even brushed my teeth. The problem was that I would stay in my bed, which more often than not meant that I was falling asleep mid-meditation. So, in order to actually feel like I was getting something out of my meditation practice, I knew I needed to change up a few things. I created a little meditation corner in my living room, and it's how I was able to truly commit to my practice.
What's in my corner, you ask? A little floor pillow, so I can sit comfortably but not in my bed, is a must. I also change my clothes because not being in pajamas shifts my mindset. I love aromatherapy, and that's been integral in keeping me calm and focussed. Plus, I've gotten a couple of books that help keep me encouraged. Meditation is a practice I'm really committing to, and I can already feel more centreed and calm when I wake up, because I have my 20 minutes to look forward to. If you're trying to meditate for the first time, set up a little dedicated space for it, and thank me later.
Outdoor Voices TechSweat 7/8 Leggings
One of the most helpful things I've found in sticking to meditation is changing out of my pajamas. This makes me want to crawl back into bed less, and I find that I'm less likely to fall asleep. I like these buttery soft Outdoor Voices TechSweat 7/8 Leggings [5] ($85).
Outdoor Voices CloudKnit Longsleeve T-Shirt
I also wear this Outdoor Voices CloudKnit Longsleeve T-Shirt [6] ($65), and I never want to take it off.
Sherpa Floor Pillow
Possibly the biggest piece of advice that helped me was to get out of my bed. I invested in this cute little Sherpa Floor Pillow [7] ($39, originally $49) as a place to sit up straight and be comfortable, but not be in my bed. It also doubles as an extra seat when people come over.
Diptyque Baies/Berries Room Spray
The Diptyque Baies/Berries Room Spray [8] ($68) has been a lifesaver. This is how you can have aromatherapy without having to wait to burn a candle. Just a couple spritzes is all you need.
Invitation to Meditation
If you have no idea where to begin, I recommend this Invitation to Meditation [9] ($15). It comes with a little crystal, and it tells you how to clear your mind and breathe deeply.
Vitruvi Porcelain Essential Oil Diffuser
This Vitruvi Porcelain Essential Oil Diffuser [10] ($119) is another great way to get your aromatherapy on.
Vitruvi Lavender Essential Oil
This Vitruvi Lavender Essential Oil [11] ($18) makes me feel more calm and ready to meditate as soon as I smell it.
Mini USB Moon Himalayan Salt Lamp
This cute, easily portable Mini USB Moon Himalayan Salt Lamp [12] ($24, originally $29) helps purify the air.
Meditation for Daily Stress: 10 Practices for Immediate Well-being
This cute Meditation for Daily Stress: 10 Practices for Immediate Well-being [13] ($10, originally $17) is another helpful, easily digestible book if you want to start meditating.
Self-Meditation: 3,299 Tips, Quotes, Reminders, and Wake-Up Calls for Peace and Serenity
This Self-Meditation: 3,299 Tips, Quotes, Reminders, and Wake-Up Calls for Peace and Serenity [14] ($10) proves that you can meditate anywhere, and is a helpful reminder to stay present.
Barefoot Dreams CosyChic Ribbed Throw Blanket
I like to stay cosy in this Barefoot Dreams CosyChic Ribbed Throw Blanket [15] ($147) while I'm meditating. Hey, sometimes I get cold!
Ban.do Rough Draft Mini Notebook
Even though meditation asks you to quiet your mind, I find that in the minutes after I'm done, I have some of my best thoughts and ideas. So, I keep this Ban.do Rough Draft Mini Notebook [16] ($12) near my meditation station, and it makes me feel like I can really let my mind wander.