by Akshay Sachdeva (Surrey)
I sometimes do feel stuck and it can negatively affect my mindset. I may be thinking the same thoughts over and over about challenges I’m facing around friendships or work or wanting to have more independence.
For me, meditation is one way that I’ve found that helps to keep a more positive mindset and protect my mental wellness.
When I meditate, I find somewhere quiet. I close my eyes and then repeat a certain word or sound again and again. It doesn’t have to be the same word every time, just something spiritual or calming. I focus on the sound of my voice and it helps my mind to relax.
I learned about meditating through watching videos and following the techniques. There are a lot of videos and places to find information online about meditating if you think it’s something you want to do.
Another important element for me is to be self-aware. We can’t control all of our thoughts, and negative thoughts can still come no matter what you do. But if I am mindful of my thoughts, I can realize when they are moving in that direction, and I can use meditation as a way to calm my mind.
Part of being self-aware also means that sometimes you know when you do need to speak to somebody and get help.
For me, having meditation helps me feel that I have a tool I can use to have some control over my mind and my feelings. It gives me the ability to support my mental wellness.