How Can I Find the Time to Meditate in My Busy Schedule?

Ah yes, the perennial issue: time! Well, the great thing about meditation is that it doesn’t really take all that much time. You can begin by practicing for five or ten minutes each day. Mornings are generally best, at least to start. You may want to sandwich a little quiet time between brushing your teeth and taking a shower. Or if you’re an early bird, you can enjoy the precious moments of stillness before the rest of the family wakes up.

Whatever time slot works best for you, the most important thing is to meditate regularly — every day if possible, give or take a day here or there (and some time to sleep late on Sundays). The reason for this recommendation is not to turn you into an automaton, but rather to give you an opportunity to enjoy the wonderful benefits of meditation, such as reduced stress and greater focus. Like lifting weights or practicing a musical instrument, meditation doesn’t really have an impact unless you keep it up and keep it regular.

As you meditate consistently over the days and weeks, you may begin to notice little changes in your life — moments of ease or peace or harmony you may not have experienced since childhood, if ever. And the more you benefit from your meditation practice, the more you’re going to feel motivated to carve out the time — and perhaps even extend the niche from 5 or 10 minutes to 15 or 20.