The words “meditation” and “mindfulness” are everywhere these days.
It’s as if we’ve gotten so far off track as a society that we need to return to the basics of generations past and remember how to sit still and just breathe.
Not only that, but these two words are often used as a way of addressing our intense addiction and
reliance on technology.
I say it’s time to turn things around. Let’s empower ourselves and use the technology that’s so ingrained in our lives as a way to make life simpler.
Are you with me? Here’s how week one went down for me:
Day 1. Monday morning. Woke up to the sound of the fire alarm going off in my building and a balmy -35 degrees outside my window. Some Zen-i-nous (that’s a word, right?) is very much needed right about now, so I’ve decided today is the absolute perfect day to start this mindfulness journey… Breathe.
Day 2. Was at school all day so I decided to meditate at lunch. There’s a quiet spot at the back of the cafeteria/lounge, so I put on my headphones and went for it. Still working on how to explain to passers-by that I’m doing an online meditation challenge, without going off on too much of a tangent about the importance of breathing and the power of technology. Will keep you posted.
Day 3. Today was an off day. Just not in the mood to meditate. Not sure if that’s a bad thing or not but I felt like a bit of a bad medi (another word I made up to refer to those who meditate and also kind of sounds like yogi, go with it). Luckily this challenge is 40 days, so PLENTY of time to make up for it.
Day 4. What a difference a day makes. I meditated on the bus ride home and it felt great. One thing to consider in this challenge is whether it matters where or when you meditate – or even what position you’re in. I’m not saying it’s a good idea to do it while you’re talking on the phone with your mom, but sitting on the bus can’t be wrong if it feels so good.
Day 5. Three cheers for incorporating the candle. With something soothing and warm to focus my eyes on, it felt like there were far less distractions in the room. Full disclosure: I fell asleep at one point, woke up to blow out the candle and then went back to sleep. Safety first!
Day 6. It is a strange sensation to stop everything else, and focus on the rhythm of your breathing. There are times it makes me uncomfortable - almost anxious or agitated. It slows everything down and forces a drastic change in pace. Hands get fidgety, feet are squirmy, and
the mind is restless. But it always passes and is replaced by a sense of calm, even if it only lasts for a moment. Currently feeling like a SERIOUS medi.
Day 7. The last challenge of the first week and I did this one with a friend. The practice changes when someone is sitting next to you because all of the inevitable questions pop in to your head (do I smell? Am I breathing too loud? Why is SHE
breathing so loud? And so on). Yet, sharing in something like this always feels good because of the conversation you can have with someone who knows exactly what you mean when you say “I really nailed my inhales today”.
I wasn’t sure how much of this challenge would feel like a chore or if it would be something to look forward to everyday. So far, I’ve meditated on a bus, with a (loud-breathing) friend, in front of curious strangers and also managed to keep my house from burning down.
One week in the bucket. Week 2: no pressure. Stay tuned.
Sarah Canzer from Montreal, Quebec
With a background in the comedy business, a bachelor's degree in political science and a passion for skiing, Sarah Canzer is as eclectic as they come. An avid athlete, her interest in health and wellness peaked a few years ago after she learned how to regain her strength following major surgery. She was born, raised, educated and is working in Montreal, and lives with her lovely fiancé and incredibly energetic puppy.
More about the author
