Five Minute Meditation Challenge

Last Wednesday, I arrived home after a day out in the city.

​Normally, when I return home, I start doing something on my to-do list. And, believe me, I had a jam-packed to-do list last Wednesday.  But, on this particular day, I was struck with an overwhelming desire not to do anything, but, rather, to simply be.

So, here's my latest challenge to myself, which I am extending to you:

Every time I arrive home for the next thirty days, rather than collapse on the couch, busy myself with projects, or get lost in a sea of internet activity, I'm going to take five minutes to reset through a quiet breathing meditation practice.

Here's how it works. You arrive home. You put your stuff down. Before you do anything else, you find an area where you can sit quietly, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Notice the inhale, the exhale, and the space between the breaths—there will be a moment when your lungs are empty before the inhale and a moment when they are full before the exhale. 

Thoughts will come up as you sit, and that's fine. Just become aware of them, let them go, and return your attention to your breathing. Like the space between your breaths, try to also become aware of the space between thoughts.

To keep track of time, I like to use the Mind app, which is free. It's quiet while you are meditating, and signals a completed meditation with a pleasant bell tone. You may also find some music that helps you to feel settled, if you prefer.

You might not see the direct connection between five minutes of meditation and your test prep. But, trust me, there's a connection.

You see, giving yourself the opportunity to separate from all the hubbub of the outside world allows you to... Reset.  Refresh. Reorient. Release. Be here, now. Nothing to do. Nowhere to go. Just breathe. {Tweet It}

Five minutes spent in quiet meditation will help you to better focus your attention and allocate your energy on your at-home tasks. 

Plus, the more you cultivate a habit of mindfulness the clearer you think—and clear thinking is a major element of succeeding on the SAT and ACT.

So, that's the project. Who's with me?

Let me know how it goes. I look forward to hearing about your experience!

Extra Credit: If you're committed and want to share this with friends, tweet about it!

I'm taking the 5-minute meditation challenge with @eoppen!  #AcingIt {Tweet It!}

Challenge accepted!  @eoppen #meditation #AcingIt  {Tweet It!}

Lastly, a reminder that for a LIMITED TIME, I am offering FREE (oh my goodness!) introductory coaching sessions!!  Click here to find out how to get your session. 

I'm so excited to work with you!!!