Meditating on the road can be difficult if you're exhausted and overburdened. However, there are several guiding principles and practical techniques that can assist you in maintaining consistency when travelling.
Guiding Principles
1. Incorporate variation into your routine.
If being in an unusual location makes it more challenging to settle into your routine activities, use the situation to your advantage. This place is an opportunity to try out new techniques.
2. Be adaptable.
Utilize any materials you have on hand. If your Zafu is too bulky to fit in your carry-on bag, then use a pillow from your bed. If you typically burn incense, dab a scented lotion along your shoulders and neck for a subtle perfume.
3. Place a premium on quality above quantity.
If you're sleep-deprived, jet-lagged or your daily schedule is jam-packed, take it easy on yourself. Even five minutes of meditation might help you to unwind and rejuvenate. Excessive exertion can backfire and leave you feeling stressed.
4. Incorporate hurdles into your practice.
The more you travel, the more you start to accept that things will occasionally go wrong. If you find yourself with an unexpected layover, take a few moments to unwind so you can remain calm as you alter your plans.
5. Let go of preconceived notions.
Travel may be a great lesson if you utilize it to reinforce the fact that external circumstances are out of your control. Nonetheless, you can safeguard your peace of mind. Maintain a neutral attitude when planes are delayed, or luggage is missing.
6. Continue practicing healthy habits.
Because the mind and body are inextricably linked, it's simpler to concentrate when one's physical health is in good shape. Maintain a healthy diet, regular exercise, and appropriate rest.
Practical Techniques
1. Bring along a familiar object.
You'll feel more at ease if you bring along a modest item that serves as a reminder to practice. It's effortless to bring a little bell with you to alert your mind.
2. Discourage background noises.
If your hotel room is adjacent to an elevator, noise can distract you. On your mobile device, play some pink noise. In the background, it'll sound like mild rain.
3. Wear a sleep mask.
From the outside, meditation is not apparent. When you wear a sleep mask, flight attendants and seatmates will assume you are sleeping and less inclined to initiate a conversation with you.
4. As soon as you wake up, schedule a meditation session.
The most problematic aspect of travel may be deviating from your routine, particularly if you're travelling time zones. You'll keep on track if you meditate whenever you arise in the morning.
5. Locate a meditation centre within a reasonable distance of your home.
Having somebody nearby may serve as a motivator to meditate. Perform an online search for nearby mediation centres. They can be found in various locations, from yoga studios to community centres.
6. Go for a walk.
When you leave your hotel room, business travel becomes far more stimulating. Go to the beach or inquire at the front desk about the proximity of a park or public garden.
7. Consider walking meditation as an alternative.
If the last thing you want to do after a long flight is sit down again, then take a walk while meditating. Maintain a steady and slow pace while concentrating on your breath.
Travel broadens your horizons and introduces you to fresh experiences, opportunities and cultures. By scheduling some meditation time into your calendar, you'll have more energy to appreciate all that surrounds you and be fully present in your business meetings wherever you go.