Meditating in the restless world

It's difficult to stay still for 10 or 20 minutes in a world where distractions are a constant, and it frequently causes your mind to waver between random ideas. Returning to your breath and your current attention is the essence of meditation.

Here are a few tips on how to meditate when you're restless:

1. Micro-meditations: Start meditating for 3-5 minutes, and then gradually work up from there.

2. Move: You don't need to sit on the cushion to get benefits of meditation. Incorporating movement allows people to release energy. For example, walking in the nature could provide the same benefits as meditation.

3. Curiosity trumps boredom: Curiosity about the world around you could keep you engaged with your surroundings, thus making your mind meditate. Try to notice things you've never noticed before.

4. Get help: Having access to a mental health practitioner who is trained in mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy can keep you from feeling frustrated.