How Meditation Can Help an Overthinker Like Me
For someone like me who tends to overthink, meditation creates space in my mind to breathe, observe, and simply be. But without some guidance, meditation can become a place you never want to leave—a comforting haven that feels safer than facing the real world. I know this because I’ve been there.
After a five-year breakup, I leaned on meditation to recover the strength I’d lost in that relationship. I found peace, yes, but I also became numb—detached from the world around me. It was as if every new experience might bring disaster. Relationships, so vital to any life, began to feel too risky. But meditation didn’t just shield me; it slowly helped me heal.
Finding Strength Through Meditation
Meditation taught me how to let go of the past. I even uncovered pieces of myself and memories I’d been holding on to—painful words spoken, moments of physical or emotional hurt, and even ways I may have unintentionally hurt others. These reflections weren’t easy, but they were necessary.
Meditation showed me that holding on to the past can manifest in your body and your reality, creating unnecessary stress or even physical symptoms. Over time, I’ve become more aware of the connection between my mind and body, and I’ve learned to release the tension I don’t need.
Am I perfect? Not at all. I know I’ve caused hurt before and may again, but meditation helps me to be more mindful and intentional with my actions and my words too.
Why Meditation is Self-Care
For me, meditation is an act of self-love. It helps regulate my emotions, keeps me grounded, and allows me to think more clearly. Lower stress? Check. Better sleep? Double check. Trusting myself more? Absolutely. I’ve realized that the relationship I have with myself is the foundation for every other relationship in my life.
When I nurture myself through meditation, I’m better able to show up for the people who need me most. And honestly, it feels good to care for myself in this way.
How to Start Meditating
Ready to give meditation a try? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Find Your Quiet Space – Choose a spot where you won’t be interrupted.
- Set the Scene – Dim the lights, light a candle, or put on some calming music.
- Sit Comfortably – Sit in a chair, on the floor, or even lie down. Just make sure you’re comfortable.
- Focus on Your Breath – Close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths. Inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, exhale for four counts.
- Try a Releasing Meditation – Before bed, imagine letting go of anything that’s been weighing on you—stress, fear, or even a rough day. Picture it floating away as you exhale.
The beauty of meditation is that it’s your time. There’s no right or wrong way to do it. Start small, even five minutes, and build from there.
Let’s Continue This Journey
Meditation has transformed my life in ways I’m still discovering. If you try it, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. What works for you? What challenges are you facing? Your feedback matters, and I’ll respond personally because we’re in this together.
Happy meditating, and I’ll write to y’all soon!
– Jordy
