07/08/2026
"I can't meditate... my mind is too busy."
This is probably the sentence I hear more than any other.
Somewhere along the way, many of us came to believe that meditation means sitting cross-legged like a Zen monk, perfectly still, with a completely quiet mind.
What if that's only one way?
Meditation can absolutely look like sitting in stillness, and it can be a deeply powerful practice.
But it can also look like…
Walking mindfully in nature.
Painting, drawing or colouring.
Gentle movement.
Swimming.
Pausing to take five slow, conscious breaths before responding instead of reacting.
Meditation is less about how you look and more about how you are relating to the present moment.
There is now a wealth of research showing the benefits of meditation. Regular practice can help improve concentration, reduce stress and anxiety, support emotional well-being, create more space between stimulus and response, and gently settle an overactive mind.
At the same time, it's important to recognise that not every meditation practice feels supportive for every person. Some practices can actually feel activating, particularly if you're carrying stress, trauma, or a dysregulated nervous system.
This is why we don't simply tell ourselves to "sit still."
Instead, we become curious.
✨ What movement helps my body settle?
✨ What helps my mind feel less busy?
✨ Would breath awareness, counting, a mantra, visualisation, or sound help support my attention today?
There isn't one perfect meditation practice.
There is only the practice of discovering what works for you.
In my upcoming Art of Meditation & Stillness workshop at SoHo Yoga, we'll explore the science behind meditation, gently unpack common misconceptions, and most importantly, experience a variety of practices together.
This is an experiential workshop. You'll have the opportunity to notice, with curiosity and without judgement, how different practices affect your own body, mind system.
No previous yoga or meditation experience is needed - just an open mind and a willingness to explore.
I'd love to share these practices with you.
More information and bookings can be made through Soho Yoga - www.sohoyoga.com.au/whats-on/yoga-for-mental-health. 🩵
