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Health & Fitness

Singular Focus: Meditating in Dallas

Your everything guide to capturing a moment of stillness in the hustle and bustle of the city.
By Kate Hull |
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Meditation—much like yoga or wellness—has become a catch-all term used to describe taking a moment to be still. But director of the Crow Collection’s new Wellness Institute Jacqueline Buckingham Anderson at the Crow Collection says it’s vital to finding balance in life to relieve stress, anxiety and a hectic lifestyle. “Give yourself permission to stop and pause,” she told me. 


And while I’d like to find that moment to be still I’m not quite sure where to begin. So I did some detective work to parse out what’s what when it comes to the ancient art. From starting mornings in reflective solitude to finding calm during Savasana, here, we break down everything you need to know about meditating (with the help of some of Dallas’ leading experts):


The How of It


The Shambhala Meditation Center of Dallas teaches meditation based on the Shambhala teachings, a Buddhist practice rooted in the idea of basic human goodness. Through meditation classes, programs, and community outreach, the center focuses on bringing the lessons of Shambhala into all facets of our daily lives.


“Meditation allows people to reduce anxiety, depression, and have more confidence. It is a point where you begin to meet your own mind and familiarize yourself with who you really are.”

For beginners, they offer free meditation instruction on the practice and view of meditation, overcoming obstacles, and continued study guidance. Although instructor-led guidance is a simple, effective way to learn the basics, you can also practice on your own.


Throughout Dallas, yoga studies, wellness retreats, and spas offer meditation components for visitors to find solace.


If you’re going it alone, simply find a quiet space, choose a convenient time, and give yourself serene surroundings; maybe that’s a few moments of peace at the dining room table over hot tea, or sitting outside in the afternoon sun away from the world. Focus on your breath, and clear your mind. 


Getting in the Zone


Although it is different for every meditator, a few simple tips can help you get started.


How Long It Takes: Start by finding 15 minutes for yourself. As you develop your skills, find what works best, and advance in your meditation studies, carve out a bit more time each week to focus on your practices. But at first, a small amount of quiet time is all you need.


The One Thing You Need: Deep breathing is a pivotal part of meditation. Steady and rhythmic, this leads to more peaceful state. Close your eyes, take slow deep breaths followed by a calm release.


How You Should Come: Many meditators start by practicing yoga or a few basic stretches to get the blood flowing and the body loosed up.

“Like other large and ambitious cities, we are incredibly busy and we are in such a hurry. There is no better time to take a moment to be in stillness. That is a luxury, but it is also a necessity from public health.”

Eat This: Don’t come hungry, but studies show that meditating on a full stomach can lead to a state of sluggishness distracting you from becoming relaxed.


Wear This: The Shambhala Center’s Megan Bauer insisted meditators know that the style of dress is “dressing uplifted,” meaning come as you are, in whatever is most comfortable. “You don’t have to wear yoga pants. Wear whatever you are wearing for the day; it’s up to you,” she says.


Around Dallas


 The Crow Collection has been offering wellness programs for years in addition to its arts and gardens, including morning mini-meditation sessions, health-oriented lectures, yoga, and tai chi. 


Inside the Crow Collection’s tranquil gardens and vivid galleries, visitors can find wellness outlets every morning with a mini-meditation guided session before starting the work day, or join partners Kadampa Meditation Center of Texas every Sunday for an hour to learn meditation techniques to relax the body and mind.


Jacqueline will be speaking this Wednesday about “Demistifying Meditation,” introducing the health benefits to meditation and encouraging taking a moment in everyday activities to find “pockets of solitude.”


For more information and program schedules, visit CrowCollection.org and Dallas.Shambhala.org


 


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