Meditation Tips for Beginners + A Self Love Practice

Happy Valentine’s Day lovelies! We love this holiday for so much more than its romance (which is great too!). We love watching people walk down the street with big bouquets, celebrating with our gals and co-workers, and indulging in signature sweets :). This year, we’re also trying to spend a little extra time loving on ourselves; wether that’s starting the day off with a healthy smoothie, taking the scenic route to work, or taking a few moments to meditate. Today, we’re excited to focus on the latter with the help of movement and meditation coach Kait Hurley. 

Kait is guiding us through a self love practice and giving us a few meditation tips for beginners – we know it’s not always easy to shut off your brain! So, give yourself the Valentine’s gift of 5 minutes of meditation and come out feeling relaxed and more in touch with your lovely self!

1. Ditch your expectations. When we meditate, we’re not trying to achieve a specific state of being or clear our mind of thoughts. Instead of putting pressure on yourself to get somewhere, approach your meditation with a beginner’s mindset and be open to whatever shows up.

2. Get comfortable. Sit upright so your back is supported and your head is free. I like to sit in a chair or lean against a wall when I meditate. There’s no need to sit up straight or be rigid in your body. Allow yourself to relax into a position that feels good. Eyes can be closed or open with a soft gaze.

3. Breathe naturally. Settle into the natural wavelike rhythm of breath—allowing it to be easy and free. As you stay present with your breath, you may start to notice thoughts drifting in. When this happens, it’s perfectly fine. Simply observe your thoughts, then gently guide your attention back to the breath.

4. Let it be. Don’t label your thoughts or your meditation as good or bad. Whether you enjoy the experience or not, you’re getting serious benefits from slowing down and sitting in the quiet. The meditations that have been the hardest to sit through have taught me the most about myself.

5. Stay consistent. Meditation only works if you do it. Start by sitting for 3 minutes at a time, and work your way up to 10. Another tip: Meditate after exercise. Once I’ve blown off steam and gotten a little sweaty, it’s easier for me to sit and I’m more open to the experience.

Ready?! Let’s meditate together:

Do you regularly meditate? What do you find helpful? Be sure to stay up to date with Kait on her Instagram and find more of her meditation classes here!