Developing a Meditation Practice as a Woman of Color
Bella Noches Ladies
Let’s face it….in this face paced world, when you hear someone talking about slowing down, resting, taking deep breaths, and going with the flow – does that ever give you more anxiety or worry? I don’t know about you, but even as a therapist when first think of the word meditation, what immediately comes to mind is Buddha, monks, perfect stillness in the middle of nature, and a shaved head. Although I appreciate all of those things, I’ve grown my dreads out for 5 years now, and I have no desire [at this very moment] to shave them off!
Meditation can actually be much simpler for you in your everyday life. When I talk to my clients in sessions, one of my sayings is “Make it realistic and doable….for you.” This relates to anything in your life….including developing a meditation practice for yourself. The definition of the word meditate simply states ‘to focus one's thoughts on: reflect on or ponder over.’ When you break this down, it actually gives you more opportunity to think creatively. So for example, one way I like to meditate is by curating different playlists based on the mood I want to get into.
I also like to make the different playlists because each one helps me focus my thoughts and meditate on the playlist subject. For example, I have a playlist called GYM. I have my favorite rappers, male and female, and songs that get me hyped up and boost my energy. The lyrics of each of the songs remind me of the importance of endurance, confidence, and staying true to myself.
For you, you might have a playlist specifically dedicated to getting ready for a date or to go out with your girls. All meditation is, is you focusing your thoughts and intentions and energy on a particular subject or topic. Keep in mind that meditation is very intentional. Sometimes though, our thoughts might get away from us, and we might meditate on how stressed out we are, or how worried we are, or how unhappy we are.
According to freelance writer Kiersten Brown with Black Girl Nerds, once you develop and implement a meditation practice, you can experience benefits on your mood and physical health including:
Focusing on the present.
Reducing negative emotions.
Increasing imagination and creativity.
Lowering high blood pressure.
Reducing tension headaches.
Reducing chronic pain.
Don’t just take my word for it! As you’re reading this, what meditation practices do you put onto practice already, or do you want to put into practice? Share with us below in the comments work is working for you. Let’s work together and spread the knowledge! Check out the specially curated playlist I created for us on YouTube titled: Inner Peace Girlies Meditation Playlist. Get your life with this playlist to start you off!
If you’re looking for more, check out my shop here, where I have some audio meditations that might fit you a little bit better. In the meantime, find me on social media and let me know if there are certain topics you’re interested in learning more about. Talk to you soon, and happy meditation practice making!
