By Jackie Rainford Corcoran
Explore Big Sky Health Columnist
It’s becoming common knowledge that meditation is good for us. The Western medicine powerhouse Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. states on their website that meditation may help manage everything from anxiety disorders and asthma, to cancer, depression and heart disease, among others.
The beauty of meditation is that it’s free, has no negative side effects, and can be done just about anywhere, anytime and by anyone. But many Americans have issues embracing this potent remedy, and the reasons are varied.
We’re taught at an early age that being successful members of society means we need to be busy. We often publicize our overwhelming schedules and stressed-out minds with pride – for many these are status symbols. Sitting still and doing absolutely nothing goes against the glorified overachiever way of life. If you fit into this category, consider that famous overachievers Kobe Bryant, Arianna Huffington and Oprah Winfrey all meditate.
For many of us, it’s also outside of our cultural comfort zone. Chanting “Om,” focusing on our breath and stilling our thoughts can seem just plain weird. And for what reward? It certainly doesn’t offer the instant gratification that a steak, glass of wine, or bowl of ice cream does.
Also, who has the time for such an intangible chore? Why add another thing to an already overwhelming to-do list?
If you’re interested in mediation but relate to these obstacles or others, I have a seven-second solution for you that could help get you on your way.
It’s a new app called “7 Second Meditation.”
This free app, created by Bozeman resident Justin Chapweske, sends you a reminder on your phone or computer every day at a time you set. For me, that’s at 5 p.m. I use it then in lieu of a glass of happy-hour spirits.
A recent message it delivered to me: “Take a breath – this experience is perfectly pure, regardless of your judgments – smile.” I took a breath, then observed my environment as perfectly pure. I let go of any judgment and smiled. It took seven seconds to create a new and better frame of mind.
Will this app bring me everlasting enlightenment? That’s unlikely, but it’s a small step in the right direction.
This plan differs from other daily meditation practices I’ve attempted in that it’s doable for me right now. It fits into my schedule, it’s easy and I enjoy it. So while it’s not the most exceptional way to meditate, it’s better than all the other attempts I’ve made because I actually do it.
Am I getting health benefits from it? Without having neurofeedback or blood work done to prove it, I know it feels good mentally and in my nervous system. My answer is a resounding, “Yes.”
Give it try, and let me know what you think.
Find the “7 Second Meditation” app at 7secondmeditation.com or in your app store.
Jackie Rainford Corcoran is an IIN Certified Holistic Health Coach, an NASM Certified Personal Trainer, a public speaker and health activist. Contact her at jackie@thetahealth.com, or find more information at thetahealth.org.
