In our fast-paced world, the idea of sitting still with your eyes closed and doing ‘nothing’ can feel almost… radical.
Yet meditation isn’t about checking out: it’s about tuning in.
It’s the practice of slowing down the mind so we can hear something deeper, something many of us have forgotten how to access: our inner wisdom.
Meditation involves slowing down the mind to access inner wisdom, which many people may have forgotten how to reach. For women in midlife balancing career, family, ageing parents, hormonal changes, and various pressures, meditation can provide relief and insight. It’s not limited to yogis or spiritual seekers; it is applicable to anyone seeking peace, empowerment, and a sense of purpose.
Meditation isn’t about ‘emptying’ your mind or achieving some perfect state of Zen. It’s not about becoming a different person, either.
At its core, meditation is about becoming more you. It’s a process of gently observing your thoughts, feelings, and breath, without judgment, so you can access the calm clarity beneath the surface.
It’s simple, but not always easy. And that’s why so many people give up before they experience its true benefits.
‘I’m too busy.’
‘My mind’s too noisy.’
‘I tried it once and it didn’t work.’
‘It’s too spiritual.’
‘It’s not for people like me.’
These are the most common things people say when the topic of meditation comes up. But these aren’t reasons, they’re signs. Signs that the mind is craving stillness and just doesn’t know how to find it yet.
The science (and ancient wisdom) behind meditation
Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years. Ancient Indian sages turned to it as a path to enlightenment, and spiritual leaders like Paramahansa Yogananda brought these teachings to the West in the early 20th century.
Modern science confirms what these ancient traditions have always known: meditation changes the brain. Regular practice can reduce stress, improve focus, enhance emotional regulation, and support physical healing. It’s no longer just a ‘nice-to-have.’ Meditation is now considered a tool for wellbeing and resilience, supported by neuroscience findings.
Many individuals, from meditation teachers like Jack Kornfield to neuroscientists like Dr. Joe Dispenza and podcasters Andrew Huberman and Rich Roll, acknowledge the transformative effects of meditation on their lives and work.
Why meditation matters for women in midlife
Midlife is a period of significant change. For many women, it can be a time to evaluate past achievements and contemplate an uncertain future. Meditation provides support during this transition by offering space for reflection and aiding in reconnecting with one’s body, breath, values, and self.
Meditation provides tranquillity amidst the surrounding noise.
It helps restore balance when situations seem chaotic.
Meditation involves attuning to your intrinsic guidance system, which has always been present, awaiting recognition.
Meditation shifts you from reacting to responding. When overwhelmed and stressed, sitting with closed eyes and breathing can quickly slow your heart rate and calm your thoughts. It doesn’t fix the world, but it changes your presence in it.
Making meditation a daily habit
You don’t need an hour a day, incense, chanting, or a silent retreat in the mountains. You just need to be willing and consistent.
Start with five minutes. Use a guided meditation. Walk slowly and mindfully. Breathe with intention.
There’s no perfect way to meditate. It is the practice of returning to yourself repeatedly.
As Jack Kornfield, a well-regarded meditation teacher beautifully puts it:
‘Meditation takes discipline, just like learning how to play piano. If you want to learn how to play the piano, it takes more than a few minutes a day, once a while, here and there. If you really want to learn any important skill, whether it is playing piano or meditation, it grows with perseverance, patience, and systematic training.”
It might feel uncomfortable at first. That’s normal. Most of us are used to doing. Meditation invites us to be, and that takes practice. Over time, this stillness becomes your superpower.
No matter your age, background, or beliefs, you can start today. You can begin the journey inward, and discover that everything you’ve been looking for was inside you all along.
Final thoughts
Meditation transcends mere relaxation; it is a practice aimed at reconnecting with one’s body, authentic self, and inner essence. This process enhances one’s ability to approach life with greater poise, insight, and empathy. Moreover, meditation serves as a powerful tool for self-awareness, helping individuals recall their true identity beyond the pressures, responsibilities, and societal expectations.
So the next time life feels a little overwhelming, try sitting in stillness.
Close your eyes.
Breathe.
And listen.
The answers you seek may be found in silence.
Because the peace you crave isn’t out there. It’s within you.
by Jacqui Hawkins
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