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Posted On Nov 18, 2015

Updated On Jun 25, 2025

I Flunked Meditation Class And That's Okay

Wellness Wisdom

Originally contributed by Gwen Pettit, PT, PCC, MA, MS

Meditation helps us to slow down, breathe deep, and turn our focus inward. It gives our brain a rest. Meditation has physiological benefits, too, including lowering our heart rate and improving blood pressure. Meditation can be a powerful tool to reduce stress and support our emotional wellbeing.

I understand all of its benefits and the value of meditation ... so, why do I have trouble actually doing it? I can only answer that by saying that sitting still for periods of time - without doing something - is difficult for me. I can sit and read. I can sit and create lists or review projects stacked on my desk. I can sit and have conversations or interact with friends. I can even sit outdoors and watch the birds or the weather - for a little while.

While I firmly believe that finding quiet time - to allow your mind to be still - is necessary for refreshing your brain and restoring calm, sitting down to meditate is not a solution (for me). I do have one visualization playlist that I use at night. This is a short meditation that I listen to when I lay down just before going to sleep. This sequence seems to be very effective in signaling my brain that the day is done and, that now, I can drift off to sleep. Many times I don’t even hear the end of the program. Aside from that, I have discovered that "meditation" - for me - needs to be movement focused.

When my mind is working overtime, I need to move. I walk, I swim, I bike, I stretch, I move. Physical movement and activity gives my brain a rest and brings me pure joy. I've experienced great bursts of creativity while swimming. Ideas seem to flow when I am physically engaged in activity such as focusing on my breath while swimming. While hiking in the woods I can soak up the energy of nature and feel refreshed. Just 10 minutes of gentle stretching or yoga at the day can leave me feeling calm and peaceful.


Whether it's meditation or something else, when you find yourself feeling stuck or incapable, don't give up. Instead, turn it around. There is no "one size fits all" for achieving a goal. Accept your uniqueness and discover the path that works best for you.