Body Scan Meditation

Body scan meditations are a mindfulness practice used to improve your overall well being. They involve paying attention to parts of your body and releasing tension that may be building up. It has proven effects of improving sleep, reducing stress, increasing focus, and decreasing aches and pains. 

Body scans attune our senses to the sensations of the our body without judging them but simply trying to see them for what they are. In merely noticing tensions, sensations, etc. we provide relief to the area and can choose to relax our body.  They can also provide some relief to psychological tension which can easily accompany physical discomfort.

There are many body scan scripts available for you to try. You can check out scripts from Greater Good in Action, Mindful, or an audio one by Headspace. 

Below are two youtube videos of body scans. The first is a short 5 minute video for those that are beginners and want to try this exercise.  The second is 15 minutes for a deeper meditation.  

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I hope you are all taking care of yourself and looking out for the needs of others during this difficult time. 

This week try a body scan and see if this type of meditation works for you.