During my 200-hour yoga teacher training, we meditated for nearly an hour each day… and it was miserable (for me). I knew going in that meditation would be my biggest challenge, and I wasn’t wrong.
Stillness is a skill I haven’t mastered yet. And even though I’m a yoga teacher, I still have to work hard at it. Or, as some would argue, maybe it’s not about working hard at all.
One morning, after a long meditation session by the river, my teacher asked, “What did you guys think of today’s meditation?” While others praised the experience, I couldn’t ignore how frustrated I felt. I was sore, distracted, and honestly, just counting down the minutes until it was over.
When I openly shared my struggle, my teacher simply smiled and said, “You’re on the right track.”
At the time, I didn’t fully understand what she meant, but those words stayed with me. Later, I researched why meditation sometimes brings up frustration and even anger. That’s when I realized—meditation isn’t about achieving perfect stillness. It’s about becoming aware of what arises and learning to sit with it.
Simplifying My Meditation Routine
With this in mind, I decided to simplify my meditation practice. I set a goal of 20 minutes daily, but life got in the way, and soon 20 minutes turned into 15, then 10. Eventually, I realized I needed something more sustainable—something I could stick to no matter how busy my days got.
That’s when I found my rhythm: 5 minutes, 3 times a week—Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Even though I know the benefits of daily meditation, I’ve learned to meet myself where I am. Five minutes, three times a week? That’s realistic. It doesn’t matter how busy I am—five minutes is always possible, especially when it helps me feel grounded for the rest of the day.
My Meditation Tools & Routine
Meditation gives me a chance to connect with my breath and body before the day begins. I love using small tools that enhance the experience and make it something I look forward to.
One of my favorite additions has been the Zen Deep Meditation Mini Kit. It includes a soothing candle, natural incense, and a beautifully crafted crystal—small but powerful elements that help me set the tone for my practice. The simple act of lighting a candle or holding a crystal in my hands brings a sense of ritual and focus.
I also use the Insight Timer app for ambient sounds and gentle gong chimes to start and end my session. Some days, I sit upright; other days, I lie down in a restorative yoga pose. I let go of any strict rules and simply focus on my breath. If my mind wanders, I guide it back with patience and kindness.
Understanding Emotions in Meditation
Through my research, I discovered that many experienced meditators also struggle with emotions like frustration or even resurfacing memories. I’ve been exploring Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, which suggests that meditation can allow buried emotions to surface when our usual mental defenses relax.
Instead of resisting these emotions, I’m learning to listen to them with curiosity and compassion. Sometimes, all it takes is acknowledging them to begin letting go.
Building a Sustainable Practice
I’d love to make meditation a daily habit eventually, and I can see how my small, consistent commitment is leading me there. But for now, I’m embracing progress over perfection.
If you’re someone who has struggled with meditation or consistency, I hope this reminds you to go easy on yourself. Meditation is just one of many tools for self-care—it doesn’t have to be rigid or perfect. Whether it’s three minutes or thirty, what matters is showing up for yourself in whatever way you can.
And if you’re looking for a way to make meditation more intentional, adding a small ritual—like lighting a candle or holding a crystal—might make all the difference. For me, the Zen Deep Meditation Mini Kit has been a simple yet meaningful way to elevate my practice and create a space for stillness in my day.
After all, it’s the small, consistent steps that lead to the most growth, healing, and inner peace.
