There are days when you just want to be left alone. But the question everyone needs to ask is; what is a quiet time? Others regard it as a moment of reflection during which they get to focus and plan better in the event that things have not been working according to plans. Others refer to such solitude moments as meditation. It is a common term but does it make amends with any exercising?
Defined as a state of thoughtless awareness, meditation is ostensibly a mental exercise, albeit effortless. For others, what always comes to mind is cultivating a habit sitting silently inside a fitness center or a Yoga room in your house. Truth is; in the quest for the true meaning of meditation, different opinions will come your way. Some may even be confusing. But just like the term itself, it is imperative to remain focused through.
Scientific studies have indicated that meditation can in many ways, enhance concentration; reduce stress focus, mental health, and productivity. It means, if you are a student working on college homework, or a writer who wants to break through creative blocks, it is one of the most creative approaches one can explore and keep the wheels of productivity grinding. You may want to ask how?
The Basics
Well, before looking at how meditation will help make your more productive and enhance your focus on a writing project or in the classroom, it is imperative to note that it isn’t as difficult as many tend to think. Essentially, it is a way of exercising, except that this time around, one is focusing on their breathing with an aim of prefrontal cortex or the gray matter enhancement. It is where willpower to do something begins and a good boost will make one many time productive.
The following basic steps should thus help you settle down for a meditation exercise:
- Look for a quiet, comfortable place in which you can sit. It is imperative that during this time, your blood circulation is at optimal levels and no body part gets sore.
- Get a timer and set it to say 5 minutes.
- Close your eyes
- Now, it is time to concentrate on your breath. You can say in your mind ‘ breathe in’ and ‘breathe out’
- Take note that during this time; a lot of things may be trying to derail your focus such as wondering thoughts. Objectivity is thus important when you start noticing this, so keep laying emphasis on your breath.
If you find it a bit tricky focusing on the ‘breath in’ ‘breath out’ rhythm, or when it becomes redundant and want to be a little more creative, you can try a three-part breathing technique, which according to studies, works pretty well.
Because saying those words inwardly can be overarching on your desire to focus, a three-part breath technique usually referred to as yogis with motivational needs. Here, you can start by containing air in your lower abdomen or belly, followed by chest cavity as you feel the movement of ribs and finally the collarbone then repeat the cycle.
Important points to note about meditation
- It is not for dwelling on the past that you cannot change
- Meditation doesn’t compare with what one can do or techniques that are beyond reproach. You do it your way.
- You shouldn’t spend energy during meditation. It is to say, effortless.
- Movement is ill-advised as it would only be counterproductive. Your main aim is to clear your mind and movement during this time become a distraction.
- Do not lose focus on your breathing. It is the mainstay of effective meditation.
- Some people prefer to focus the mind on a mantra, a philosophical saying or a quote and that’s okay.
Techniques that will enhance your focus
Occasionally, a student would want to look for help with dissertation writing because he or she has lost focus or it is painstakingly difficult to cultivate. It is also true for a writer who is undergoing mental block and is probably thinking about subcontracting or outsourcing writing projects.
But here is the catch. What about trying out different techniques so you can build on your focus and productivity during low times?
Well, the following approaches should go a long way in helping you get there:
Body Sensation Technique
Most people who do it to enhance focus have developed a liking for this technique. It is technically referred to as ‘Vipassana.’ You will be concentrating on mind purification with an aim of clearing wondering thoughts. It also helps you get the true picture of things and by extension, cultivate wisdom. The latter is very important in productivity.
Candle Flame Technique
It is an approach that involves using a candle, preferably, in a dark room and concentrating on it. Experts refer to this technique as Tratak. It helps achieve a number of things namely; boosting memory and focus. The reason why it is seen to be effective is that a candle on which you concentrate, guard against external distractions. While holding the flame, try closing your eyes after some time and think about its new position.
Mindfulness Technique
This is the most common approach to meditation and is also known as breathing technique. Your mind can get tired at times during which focus and productivity become nightmares. With this approach, you close your eyes and concentrate on breathing and present times.
In summary, there are many other techniques one can use to build focus and productivity and they include: Using meditation apps, Counting breathing rate, Focus on surrounding sounds and, sensations, Concentration on meal intake, A walk, and Visualization
Author bio:
Scarlett Gibson is one of the MyEssayGeek experts providing the ghostwriting, technical writing, editing and proofreading services. She is fond of blogging and scuba diving and dreams of becoming a best-selling author in the nearest future.
