So in meditation we are supposed to keep it simple. And I most certainly keep it that way, but here are the three meditation essentials I use daily.
1. Meditation Chair or BackJack or Cushion – there are so many types of meditation chairs and backjacks, so this one really does come down to a matter of preference. It is much easier and better on your back to have a cushion underneath you rather than sitting on the ground. And the backjack or chair just offers extra support to the back. And for me, as a serious meditation practitioner, the more comfortable I am, the longer I can sit. So this is essentially really helpful. Check out the links above to see the brands I prefer and use.
2. Timer – I just use my phone (Samsung Note 8). And yes while I’m a major Mac Junkie and I don’t use anything other than that I’ve had my share of iPhones all the way up to the iPhone 4 I believe. And yes, I know what you’re thinking. Well, by golly, there have been so many more iPhone models since the iPhone 4, so you really don’t know what’s up. But let me assure you. I’m a tech junkie and I know what’s up. The iPhone was not cutting it for me, so I very hesitantly made the switch. Let me rephrase that, not very hesitantly. There was a little apprehension on my part, but the frustrations of the iPhone far outweighed any sense of hesitation I had to switch over. And switch over I did to the Samsung Note 5, way back when. I’ve upgraded along the way. I’m at the Note 8 right now, and I know there’s a 9, so inevitably, I may be switching over or upgrading, but at this point, there is just no need whatsoever. My Note 8 does everything I need it to do. And here I propose that I just went off on a tangent.
3. Blanket – So it is essential to being comfortable and while I don’t always use the blanket I keep it there in case I feel a breeze or my feet or shoulders feel cold. It comes in hands and allows more relaxation when you are completely comfortably. When the body temperature is just right you are more apt to get in the zone.
So essentially, these three meditation essentials are all I need.
And on occasion, I may just opt for a shawl. And these I have in many shapes, colors, and sizes. They all work the same and serve their purpose.
Those are three things I rely on for each mediation sitting. These three make it easy and possible for me. While I can meditate at any time and any place, these are my three recommendations for the avid meditator or one who wants to make this a regular daily practice in the comfort of their own space.
Alternative Resources to Add to Your Meditation Essentials
And here are some alternate resources to get you going with meditation. When I first began to become interested in Zen Buddhism, many decades ago, I was given a book by a dear friend. I didn’t know at the time that this book is one of the greatest, most revered in Zen Buddhism, but I tell you it is. Check it out, it’s called Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki.
And again meditation can seem impossible for those who have never done it before, but I assure you it much easier than you think and the benefits far outweigh any fear you may have around it.
Zen Meditation is effortless. You just turn all the external stimuli off and bring your awareness to this moments. Thoughts come and they go. Let them be. And you just be.
If you prefer having a little guidance check out my guided meditation. It’s a simple ten minute meditation and I guide you through it every step of the way. You can download it the Bliss Guided Meditation here.
To elevate your practice even further, I’ve found that having a few thoughtful tools can really help set the tone. Renoo offers beautifully made mindfulness essentials that add a touch of calm and intention to any space. You can explore their offerings here.
For more meditation and mindfulness tips, resources and insights check out these other posts:
