This week’s blog comes from Deanna Bies, a TOPS Service Program Administrator and Board Member.
I used to have a really difficult time turning off my brain at night so I could sleep. I had to learn to calm it down—get myself in control of my own thoughts.
A friend invited me to a meditation group. Before I went, I was trying to figure out how I was going to sit cross-legged on the floor and still be able to get up after the session was done. I wasn’t sure I could focus long enough or wanted to be in a room full of people chanting weird things. After all, that’s what I had seen them do in the movies.
I was in for a big surprise. We had a choice to sit on the floor, in a chair or wherever we could be comfortable, and there was no chanting. The person leading the class explained some of the benefits of meditation:
- It helps improve your concentration. A clear mind helps you be more productive.
- You are less bothered by the little things. Sometimes we get really upset by things that, in reality, are not big at all. It helps us see the bigger picture.
- It leads to better health and relieves stress, which helps in most every area of our body.
- It gives you a better knowledge of self. You have a deeper understanding of your inner self and gain a better understanding of your life’s purpose.
Meditation in and of itself is simple—clear your mind of passing thoughts and be in the moment. Sure, easier said than done in the beginning. You’ll learn to breathe correctly (in through the nose and out through the mouth) and place your focus on one thing, like the rise and fall of your chest as you breathe. You can listen to someone guide you in this process in a class or on a CD.
With practice, the benefits of meditation can get you through each day and help make it the best day that it can be. I no longer have my brain running wild when I close my eyes. Sleep is so much better.
Deanna Bies
NOTE: You can purchase a breathing exercises and meditation CD narrated by Deanna, called “Peaceful Place,” in the TOPS Store.
By Sherrie Wymetalek June 30, 2020
Great content information!
By Janice Doppler June 11, 2020
Oh my. Last week two of my former tai chi/qigong classmates did a Zoom sitting qigong mediation we learned together. We decided to do it weekly, but I had to cancel out this week due to a tooth problem. Dentist found no problem and said I am probably clenching my teeth. She’s seen that more than usual during covid-19. She suggested I meditate. I hung my head said I did that daily for years, but my practice fell away when my teacher died. When I looked back at her she simply said “meditate”. And now, I accidentally landed on this page today. Hm, I think I better get my daily practice back on track . . . . today!
By Deanna Bies May 26, 2020
Thanks Anne! Funny how certain words trigger memories and help us to stay on path. So glad to hear you are doing well and managing through this time of change. Yes – I have seen all the flooding – so sad but glad you and your family are safe. Keep positive – you how that helps to move forward. Hugs from afar.
By Anne Hinson May 26, 2020
Oh, Deanna, I could hear your ‘voice’ as I read this blog. I was back at Cedar Canyon listening to you. Wonderful memories!
I have your cd and listened to it a few times and slowly got out of the routine. I’m happy to say I’m journaling again-blood sugar is down as are my scales-bit by bit! A few weeks ago I read the phrase: “If you always do, what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always gotten.”
I have seen this for years-back in my years of being in the classroom. This time it really spoke to me. Often, when I reach for something not in my plan, I hear myself telling me this.
Until we can meet again in our chapter, we email what we have gained or loss on our home scales. This has helped me to be accountable.
You may have seen on the news of the dams that breached here in the Midland area. It’s just eight miles from us. Ourselves and our three children/families are safe. No flooding this time. My sister, Mary Snyder, bought a house in the small town but thank goodness it’s on higher ground and had no damage. God is good.
I hope this finds you well.
Anne Hinson
By Deanna Bies May 26, 2020
Thanks Anne! Funny how certain words trigger memories and help us to stay on path. So glad to hear you are doing well and managing through this time of change. Yes – I have seen all the flooding – so sad but glad you and your family are safe. Keep positive – you how that helps to move forward. Hugs from afar.
By Janet Long May 26, 2020
Thank you for this information.I enjoy reading what Tops has each week. God Bless, thanks again.