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(This is a version of an excerpt from an article published in the Healthy Hairdresser section of the October 2014 issue of MODERN SALON.)

 

“Try to give yourself the gift of meditation every single day,” advises author and certified MindBody Health educator Mary Beth Janssen. “Consistency is more important than duration. Begin with a short session of just a few minutes, and build gradually as you experience the regenerative benefits.” Janssen offers these tips for optimal benefit:

  • Close your eyes. It keeps your senses from having to process outside information.
  • Begin with a mantra or chosen word. Repeat it to yourself again and again.
  • Breathe deeply, smoothly and naturally. Pay attention to the flow of your breath, in and out.
  • Permit thoughts to come and go. Trust that with time you will find access to silence. Your mind will learn to release stressful thoughts.

 

“Meditation will change your perceptions,” Janssen predicts, adding that you’ll find yourself increasingly open to enjoying food, art, music and other pleasurable experiences. “You’ll be more emotionally present.”

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