Amy Barczy is a former brand journalist who authored content at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Prior to her time at Blue Cross from 2019-2024, she was a statewide news reporter for MLive.com. She has a decade of storytelling experience in local news media markets including Lansing, Grand Rapids, Holland, Ann Arbor and Port Huron.
Winter Self-Care Guide: Meditation
2 min read
This winter we are embracing self-care on A Healthier Michigan.
As we start the New Year, one of the best ways to set your intention for 2022 and ground your thoughts is by starting a meditation practice.
All you need to begin is a quiet space, and five to 10 minutes. Find a comfortable spot and close your eyes. You can choose to have a guided or unguided meditation. During a guided meditation, you’d listen to someone gently direct your attention to different thoughts, sensations in your body and breathing patterns – sometimes through a podcast, smartphone app or video. During an unguided meditation, set a time limit and then work through your thoughts and connect with your breath.
Many have found meditating in the morning to be the most beneficial time of day to practice, but you can meditate anywhere, anytime.
Meditation is like a stretch for the brain – and like any other skill, allow yourself time to learn it with practice.
Here is a guided meditation to try today:
You can also register for a free meditation session every Wednesday at noon by visiting bluecrossvirtualwellbeing.com.
Once you get started, try experimenting with these other meditation techniques:
Here’s more about why meditation works:
Mediation can be done wherever you are. But, if you’re looking for a more intentional experience, there are centers across Michigan to visit where you can develop your skills:
If you have children, consider getting them involved as well:
Each week during January and February 2022, we’ll be featuring a self-care technique to encourage you to try something new and make time for yourself this winter. Follow along on AHealthierMichigan.org.
Check out these other self-care guides:
Photo credit: Getty Images
