04/03/2025
BODY SCAN MEDITATION
Lie down, close your eyes, and take a few moments to relax. Remember, this is you time, so get nice and comfy before continuing.
Once you’re relaxed, take a moment to check your posture. I find that having good posture is essential in meditation because it helps us to focus. Make sure you are comfortable and that your spine is in proper alignment. The best way to lie down is in Shavasana.
To do this, lie on the floor face-up (you might like to use a blanket or a cushion under the small of your spine). Move your legs so your feet are about shoulder-width apart. Rotate your feet a little outwards. Place your hands by your side, palms upwards. Check that your body is relaxed, including all the muscles in your face.
With your eyes closed, focus on the sensations throughout your entire body. Simply observe the way your body feels. It has a vibration and an energy. Get in contact with that energy. Feel it. Investigate it. Is it soft or hard? Warm or cool? Is the vibration fast or slow? Focus your mind on those sensations. Some of the sensations you experience may include tightness, coolness, twitches, cramps, buzzing, pulsing, numbness, itching, and nausea.
Also notice emotions and feelings like restlessness, irritability, fatigue, and stress as well as positive emotions like calmness and joy. Be aware of these sensations as you continue the process.
Direct your mind to the crown of your head. Notice the sensations there. Meditate on the way the crown of your head feels. I like to take a moment to connect my mind to that part of my body before I continue.
Now gradually begin to move your focus down your body, through your face.
Continue to pass your consciousness down your neck, your shoulders, your arms, all the way to your fingers. Then proceed back up your arms to your shoulders, and then down to your feet and toes. Meditate on each part of your body before moving on.
Once you’ve reached your toes, reverse the procedure until you are once again focusing on the crown of your head.
Now take five minutes to meditate on the sensations throughout your entire body.
When I finish, I like to take a few moments to relax before returning to normal. This allows for a time of transition back to my normal state.
Continue to tune in to your body throughout the day in order to stay mindful.