The second half of life can be a time of increased happiness and joy. In fact, it is called the U-shape of happiness, that life satisfaction is high in early life, declining in mid-life, and then commencing an upswing in later life.
The years after 65 often come with increased physical and emotional challenges, but older adults are often more experienced at emotional regulation and handling the cross-currents of life.
One method that an increasing number of adults are using to handle life’s challenges is meditation. Meditation is a practice involving focusing or clearing your mind using a combination of mental and physical techniques. Depending on the type of meditation, you can meditate to relax, reduce anxiety and stress and more.
Use of meditation as a stress management tool is on the rapid upswing in the US, with the numbers of people using meditation more than doubling over the last decade. And with good reason: meditation is a scientifically supported way to boost mental clarity, emotional well-being, and even physical health later in life. Research has shown that meditation is associated with better sleep, improved blood pressure and decrease in coronary disease and reduced stress. And the best part? It’s never too late to start.
If you're curious about how to begin, here are some simple, beginner-friendly ways to incorporate meditation into your daily routine:
Start Small. Begin with 5–10 minutes a day. Consistency is more important than duration. Over time, you can build in longer sessions.
Choose the Right Style. For beginners, guided meditations can be especially helpful. Apps like Headspace, Calm, or even Youtube offer tailored sessions, some of which are specifically geared toward seniors.
Create a Comfortable Environment. Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed.
Be Patient. There’s no “right” way to meditate. Some days may feel easier than others. Treat each session as an act of self-care, not a task to perfect.
Try Group Meditation. Joining a local meditation group or a virtual session can provide social connection and added motivation, both of which are beneficial for older adults.
Incorporate Mindfulness into Daily Life. Even simple activities like walking, eating, or gardening can become meditative.
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