Meditation For Our Loughborough Students
Article writen by: Miley | 13 May 2023 |
As a student living in Student Beehive student accommodation in Loughborough and attending Loughborough University, I know first-hand the stress and challenges that university life can bring. One of the most effective ways I've found to cope with these challenges is through meditation. In this article, I'll share my experiences and tips for incorporating meditation into your daily routine, especially for those of you living in student accommodation in Loughborough.
Meditation… what is it?
Meditation is an ancient practice that has been used for thousands of years to cultivate inner peace, focus, and self-awareness. It involves focusing your attention on a specific object, thought, or activity to train your mind and achieve mental clarity. There are several different types of meditation, each with its unique benefits and techniques.
Why is meditation important?
Meditation has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for a good reason. With the fast-paced, stressful lives we lead today, especially as students, it's essential to find ways to unwind and relax. Meditation can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and promote emotional well-being, making it an invaluable tool for our Loughborough students.
How to meditate?
Regardless of the type of meditation you choose, the basics are generally the same. Find a quiet, comfortable space in your Loughborough accommodation, such as your room or a designated meditation area. Sit or lie down comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breath or another point of focus. As thoughts come into your mind, acknowledge them and gently bring your attention back to your breath or point of focus.
Different types of meditation to try:
- Breath control: This type of meditation focuses on controlling your breath, either by counting or following a specific pattern. It's a simple technique that can help calm your mind and relax your body.
- Focused meditation: In focused meditation, you concentrate on a single point, such as an object, sound, or sensation. This type of meditation can help improve your focus and concentration.
- Mindfulness meditation: Mindfulness meditation involves paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. This type of meditation can help increase self-awareness and emotional well-being.
What are the benefits of meditation?:
Physical benefits:
Meditation has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and improve overall health. It can also help reduce the effects of stress on the body, making it an essential practice for students living in student accommodation in Loughborough.
Mental benefits:
Meditation can help improve focus, concentration, and memory, all crucial aspects of academic success. It can also help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, making it an invaluable tool for maintaining mental health during your time at university.
Tools to help you meditate:
- Best books for meditation for students: Some excellent books to help you get started with meditation include "The Miracle of Mindfulness" by Thich Nhat Hanh and "Mindfulness in Plain English" by Bhante Gunaratana.
- Best podcasts for meditation for students: Podcasts such as "The Daily Meditation Podcast" and "Meditative Story" offer guided meditations, tips, and inspiration for incorporating meditation into your daily routine.
- Best apps for meditation for students: Apps like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer offer guided meditations, timers, and various resources to help you develop and maintain your meditation practice.
Living in student accommodation in Loughborough, such as the Student Beehive, provides you with the perfect environment to cultivate a meditation practice. With a range of accommodation options, including halls of residence and private rooms, you'll find the ideal space to create a dedicated meditation area in your Loughborough accommodation.
Whether you're a first-year student looking for halls of residence or an upper-year student seeking more private accommodation, Student Beehive has you covered. Their Loughborough accommodations are designed with students' needs in mind, providing comfortable living spaces, study areas, and communal spaces for socializing and relaxation. As a Loughborough University student, you'll have access to various resources to support your meditation practice. The university often hosts workshops and events focused on mindfulness and stress reduction, and there may even be meditation clubs or groups you can join.
In conclusion, incorporating meditation into your daily routine can significantly impact your overall well-being, academic success, and stress management during your time at Loughborough University. By utilizing the resources and support available both on campus and within your student accommodation, you'll be well-equipped to develop a meditation practice that can benefit you throughout your life. So, whether you're living in halls of residence or private student accommodation in Loughborough, take some time to explore the various types of meditation and find the one that works best for you. Your mind and body will thank you for it, and you'll be better prepared to handle the stresses and challenges that come with being a university student.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mindfulness meditation is particularly beneficial for students, as it helps to reduce stress, increase focus, and enhance emotional well-being. This form of meditation teaches students to be present in the moment, allowing them to better manage distractions and improve concentration.
To meditate as a student, find a quiet space, sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. As thoughts arise, gently bring your attention back to your breathing. Start with a few minutes each day and gradually increase the duration of your practice.
Beginner students can start with a simple mindfulness meditation. Find a quiet spot, sit with a straight back, and close your eyes. Focus on your breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly. Whenever your mind wanders, gently return your focus to your breath. Begin with short sessions and gradually increase the time spent meditating.
Yes, meditation has been proven to be effective for students. Research shows that it can help reduce stress, improve focus and concentration, enhance emotional well-being, and even boost academic performance. By incorporating meditation into their daily routines, students can experience numerous mental and emotional benefits.