Meditation is not just a new age phenomenon, but also a healing activity that people from all over the world have been turning to for many generations. Meditation has been proven to improve mood, reduce blood pressure, and reduce stress and anxiety. The great thing about meditation is that it is easily accessible. Below are just a few mediations seniors of all levels and abilities can try. Be sure to check with your physician to make sure these meditations are safe for you.
 
Guided Meditation
 
Guided meditations are an excellent choice for those new to meditation. You can attend a live guided meditation at your local senior center or fitness studio. However, you can also listen to a DVD, CD, or online guided meditation at home. During the mediation, you will be asked to sit, stand, or lay in a comfortable position—while the instructor talks you through your mediation in a soothing voice.
 
Visualization
 
Visualization is an effective method of mindful meditation and is ideal because it can be done anywhere you like. Simply close your eyes then sit, stand, or lay in a comfortable position. Then visualize yourself in an ideal situation. This could be seeing yourself as healthy, happy, and strong. You could also do a visualization for relaxation, such as picturing yourself in a soothing natural scene. To take your visualization to the next level, play some instrumental music or sounds of nature as you meditate.
 
Seated Yoga
 
If you think of yoga as an activity reserved only by exceptionally flexibly individuals with super-human balance—think again. Yoga can be easily modified for seniors and beginners alike. Seated yoga is ideal for seniors with limited mobility. Seniors with moderate to high mobility can find a variety of poses that they can comfortably sit in for extended periods of time while focusing on a deep breathing exercise.
 
Deep Breathing
 
Deep breathing is an excellent method of meditation. However, deep breathing may not be safe for seniors who have lung-related health concerns. Once you get the green light from your physician, start with simple deep breathing. Close your eyes and sit, stand, or lay in a comfortable position. Breathe in slowly and fully for a count of 5 then exhale slowly fully for a count of 5. Clear your mind while breathing and focus only on how your breath feels coming in and out of your body.
 
You can alternate the senior meditations above or select one as your go-to method of relaxation.