As transformative as it can be to one’s life, meditation isn’t for everyone.
Failure in meditation can contribute to a lack of self-care on the whole. Once we drop one aspect, it becomes a waterfall effect. Stillness, and its benefits, comes in many forms other than the act of meditating and you can get involved as soon as today (really!).
Meditation may not be for all, but self-care certainly is. Strip back the core of what meditation is, to ground yourself, and you will find parts of your life where you can infuse the concepts in different ways that are uniquely-you.
The goal here is to find peace in your daily life. From the office to the gym to home with the family, take into account our alternatives to meditation and how you can start your practice of self-care. If you’re feeling inspired, pop a comment at the end of the article and tell us how you’re changing your day for peace, without sitting meditation.
Breathing
A fundamental part of meditation is using your breath and observing its presence. Rather than sitting still with your eyes closed in an attempt to form some clarity, try noticing the way you breathe whilst moving through your day – in the line at the supermarket, at your desk at work, before or after important meetings, when stuck in traffic. Whatever the situation, take a step back and focus on your breathing.
Music Therapy
We feel the rhythm of music in our bodies, so deeply connected to our emotions and physical reactions. Music as therapy is an increasingly popular mindfulness practice, and as a bonus, it’s completely free for all to enjoy. You don’t have to splash on an expensive class to get back to who you are either. All it takes is awareness in your choice of music and a space to let yourself feel the beat.
In a 2015 study, researchers found that music-based mindfulness was a powerful tool in helping women experiencing breast cancer treatment. It was found to increase and improve their attention over time, and enhance their mood.
Yoga
The team at Boody love yoga and its benefits, whether it’s part of our morning routine or a tool to ward off the winter chill. We’re firm believers in using yoga as meditation – to reduce stress, improve concentration, increase self-awareness, boost happiness and slow the process of aging. It’s powerful, y’all. Yoga as spiritual meditation has existed almost synonymously for thousands of years.
For anyone that finds meditation to be boring, uninspired or forced, at the end of a yoga class often your mind needs a rest. Savasana (that time post-class where you just lie there) is regarded as one of the hardest ‘poses’ for Yogis. Why? I mean, you just lie there, right? Well, like meditation, your mind is racing and your heart is beating fast due to the cardio movements you’ve just performed. But if you hate the idea of being still, this is a great habit to recover after a sweat sesh as you’re essentially in the perfect position to just ‘be’.
Swimming
It may not seem obvious at first, but lap swimming is a popular alternative for meditation loathers to find peace in their day.
Simply, a swim in a 50-metre lap pool can be spiritual because you’re using important aspects of meditation: your breath and your concentration. Plus, the solitude really helps if you’re constantly distracted by others or your own ability to talk in even the quietest moments. You may think you can talk underwater, but the reality is, it’s an environment where you’re forced to be alone with your thoughts and your breathing. Take advantage of this time and concentrate on adding a mindful element to your physical actions.
Walking or Hiking
Walking meditation is all about the experience of movement. Unlike ‘regular’ meditation, you can reap the benefits without closing your eyes or remaining still – both barriers to forming a consistent and meaningful practice.
Need an energy boost? Take a solo walk in nature and get back to you. Some quick tips to make a real impact on your next meditation-based stroll:
- Be aware of the feeling of the wind, sun, and possibly rain, on your skin
- Take in the sounds of nature – and choose when, and if, you will block out certain sound intrusions or make others louder
- Be mindful of what your body is doing whilst walking and how it feels
- Feel the weight shift between each foot and alternate this
Now you’re across the alternative ways to find peace in your daily life, give yourself permission to take a long walk, swim a few laps of your local pool, or stay right until the end of your next yoga class. A relaxed state of mind works beyond an often-restrictive still meditation, so branch out and see what works for you.
You may also like
Guide
We're Turning Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
For the month of October, we're releasing a limited range of McGrath pink underwear styles, with 100 percent of the profits from each item going directly to the Mcgrath Foundation. Shop our McGrath pink collection. 100% of profits go to the McGrath Foundation. Padded Shaper Crop Bra > Classic Bikini > Original Boxers > Giving back is a core value for us. Being an underwear brand, we have a natural affinity with the McGrath Foundation but our connection also runs deeper - many reviews on our website are from people sharing their love for the natural softness, breathability and comfort of its bamboo bras following breast cancer-related surgeries. In fact, bamboo is one of the most soothing fabrics to wear while recovering from surgery or having chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Bamboo is naturally antibacterial so it can be worn against the skin without risking infection, it wicks moisture away from the skin and absorbs excess perspiration (a side effect of cancer-related hormone treatments) and it is super soft and kind to even the most sensitive skin. We're proud to support the McGrath Foundation, the Australian organisation funding McGrath Breast Care Nurses who provide every type of support from emotional to physical for individuals and their families experiencing breast cancer. 100% of profits go to the McGrath Foundation. SHOP NOW Note: This exclusive collection is available on our AU and NZ website's only.
Guide
How To Check Your Breasts
What’s the first thing you think to look for when you hear the phrase ‘check your breasts’? It’s often the idea that you’re looking for a lump. Right? Did you know that there are actually 12 symptoms of breast cancer that can help you be more confident to report a persistent breast change? We bet you also didn't know that the changes to look out for are very similar for both women and men. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with 9 people losing their lives to the disease every day. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation Australia, 1 in 7 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and about 1 in 700 men are diagnosed with the disease too. But thanks to research the relative survival rate for breast cancer in Australia has improved from 76% to 91%. As a brand that creates intimates - it seemed fit for us to use our platform to talk to breast cancer and use the month of October to simply be breast aware - because if you grow them, you should know them. So, what should my breasts feel like? Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that only you can really know your breasts. The way breasts look and feel will vary for every person. That is why it is so important to be breast aware as this will ensure you can acknowledge a change - if there is one. Remember, October is a reminder to check your breasts - but checking should be made part of your monthly routine. “Forty percent of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump, so establishing a regular breast self-exam is very important.” Source: nationalbreastcancer.org What are the 12 symptoms? The following 12 signs are things to be aware of. Yes, sometimes it is just your body but a change noticed that is persistent - is best checked by your doctor. It is important to note, different people have different symptoms of breast cancer. Some people do not have any signs or symptoms at all. New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit) Thickening or swelling of part of the breast Irritation or dimpling of breast skin Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area Nipple discharge other than breast milk Any change in the size or the shape of the breast Changes in the shape of the nipple Pain in any area of the breast Growing veins Nipple retraction Thickening of the nipple or breast skin How should A breast self-exam be performed? In the Shower With the pads/flats of your 3 middle fingers, check the entire breast and armpit area pressing down with light, medium, and firm pressure. Check both breasts each month feeling for any lump, thickening, hardened knot, or any other breast changes. In Front of a Mirror Visually inspect your breasts with your arms at your sides. Next, raise your arms high overhead. Look for any changes in the contour, any swelling, or dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. Next, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly match—few women’s breasts do, so look for any dimpling, puckering, or changes, particularly on one side. Lying Down When lying down, the breast tissue spreads out evenly along the chest wall. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, move the pads of your fingers around your right breast gently covering the entire breast area and armpit. Use light, medium, and firm pressure. Squeeze the nipple; check for discharge and lumps. Repeat these steps for your left breast. What does a lump feel like? A new lump is one of the most common signs of breast cancer. Lumps that are breast cancers can vary. For example, they may be painless or painful. Lumps can also be a sign of a benign (non-cancerous) breast condition. However, if you have found a new lump or breast change, it is important to see your doctor so that it can be checked by a health professional. When should I see a doctor? A breast change doesn't always mean it is ‘cancer’. However, being breast aware is invaluable and if you do see a sign, have a symptom, don't feel right or simply just want to be sure - we encourage it! Early detection gives the best possible chance of survival if you are diagnosed with breast cancer. It is important to remember that breast awareness does not replace having regular mammograms and other screening tests as recommended by your doctor. Some people diagnosed with breast cancer have signs or symptoms. However, some women have no signs/symptoms and the breast cancer is found during a screening mammogram. How often should I get a mammogram? In general, women should have a yearly clinical breast examination by a doctor beginning at age 20 and start having annual mammograms beginning at age 40. BreastScreen Australia offers free mammograms to women aged between 40 and 74 years. If you experience any breast symptoms or unusual changes, see your doctor without delay. If you have a strong family history or you are concerned that you may have an increased risk of breast cancer, always talk to your doctor. Your doctor will help you assess and manage your breast cancer risk and will advise of any additional precautions or screening you may require. Mammograms are not recommended for male breast cancer screening in Australia. However, other tools to check include a clinical breast examination, an ultrasound and a biopsy. So, do men get breast cancer? So many people assume breast cancer affects women only. Breast cancer affects both men and women, because men and women both have breast tissue. About 1 in 700 men are diagnosed with breast cancer* in Australia. If you are a man or are reading this and have men in your life - it is important to make them always aware and let them know that if there are any new and unusual changes to their breasts - they should be aware and seek attention. Our platform is open to #EveryBoody For the month of October, we will use our platform to talk to breast cancer awareness and share insights through personal stories. Our platform is open to #EveryBoody. If you have a story you would like to share, want to share someone else's story or have someone you want to give a shout out to - please reach out to us. We would be honoured to share your story and your message. As one of the most common cancers in the world and a cancer that has touched so many in one way or another - simply starting the conversation and education pieces like this will help lead to an increased awareness. Contact marketing@boody.com.au to share a story. Sources: https://nbcf.org.au/about-breast-cancer/detection-and-awareness/breast-cancer-symptoms/, https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam, https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/self_exam, https://nbcf.org.au/about-breast-cancer/breast-cancer-stats/
Guide
5 Lounge-Worthy Essentials
Home. It’s where you’ll find most of us these days. The shift in routine, workstations and how time is spent has meant a change in attire too. Comfort-first is a mantra we’re all about and something we’re reaching for more than ever. Our collection of organically grown bamboo sleepwear and loungewear essentials are soft, simple and sustainable. Organically grown bamboo is highly breathable, comfy and soft. It is perfect for garments that sit close to the skin like underwear, socks, sleepwear and loungewear essentials. So, whether your plans as of late consist of organising your wardrobe, labelling your spice drawer, baking many many cakes, writing journal entries, working remotely or binging your favourite TV show - do so in something that's good for you and good for the planet. Our essentials are comfort-first, lounge-worthy and perfect for easy days. Our timeless designs, fits and colours are versatile and made for home and beyond. Discover an easy to wear collection of pants, layering pieces, jumpers and accessories that are made for you to be comfortable and feel comfortable in. So go on, make yourself a cup of herbal tea and place yourself in the corner of the lounge (our biased opinion of the best spot). Now that you have made yourself comfortable, keep reading our list of 5 lounge-worthy essentials. The Downtime Lounge Pant Okay, we’re just going to call it. They’re the most comfortable pants you’ll ever own. Our Downtime Lounge Pants are soft to the touch and light to wear. Crafted with a wide waistband, a gently-snug draped fit, a tapered leg and comfortable, fitted ankle cuffs. These easy to lounge in pants are complete with side pockets - perfect for snacks, phones and remotes that definitely won’t get lost in the lounge again. Pair back with our Downtime Lounge Top for the best loungewear combo for comfort. The Matching Set It's the new leisure suit, with plenty of stretch and comfort. The matching set is our go-to for long days spent at home and perfect for zooming, lounging and napping. With little effort, a matching loungewear set allows you to look put together with ease - simply match the colour from top to bottom and you’re good to go. Our favourite matching sets? Try the Downtime Lounge Top and Pants in timeless colours Storm and Black. Discover Athleisure - the perfect balance of comfort wear and low impact activity wear, crafted in a breathable blend of organically grown bamboo and organic cotton. Made to warm up, cool down and lounge around in. The saying goes, if it matches it counts as an outfit right? Discover our soft, simple, and sustainable sleepwear collection, made with organic bamboo to create the most comfortable pj’s. Earth inspired colours Storm, Dove, Dusty Pink and Black make this matching sleepwear set look so put together, crafted in luxuriously soft sustainable materials - no one will pick you’re even in your pyjamas. The Layering Hero Curl up on the lounge in our round-up of investment, timeless staples that play well inside and out., our certified organically grown bamboo pyjamas, loungewear and athleisure are comfy, breathable and soft to touch. Organically grown bamboo is thermoregulating and anti-static, making it perfect for garments that sit close to the skin. Naturally eco-friendly and hypoallergenic - wear our basics on their own or layer. Discover our Women's Long Sleeve Round Neck T-Shirt, Long Sleeve Bodysuit and Cami Top. The best part - our basics are so versatile and perfect for home and beyond. Ahh, now you’re comfy. The Answer To Toasty Toes Perfect for cosy days at home. Our Chunky Bed Socks are soft, comfy and warm. Featuring a loose leg opening and two-tone colour weave, our Chunky Bed Socks will fall softly on your foot and sit comfortably mid-calf. Crafted in a thick, soft knit for all-over comfort, our warm bed socks for women will keep you warm and cosy and won't slip. Now we have that sorted. Extra snacks for family movie time? Check. Facemask on? Check. Essential oils burning? Check. The Wrap-Yourself-In-This-All-Day A versatile way to add a little warmth to keep you cosy on the inside and out. Our Cosy Knit Wrap is 100% organically grown bamboo and 100% soft, warm and easy. The Cosy Knit Wrap is crafted in a heavyweight true knit. Luxuriously soft and premium to touch, the Cosy Knit Wrap is made with a two-tone effect and soft drape and is that extra piece of warmth you will reach for. Discover in Storm, Dove, Dusty Pink and Black. Shop and discover more sleepwear, loungewear and accessories and tag us in your best lounge looks @boody. #EveryBoody
