The gladsome current of our youth, Ere passion yet disorders, Steals lingering like a river smooth Along its grassy borders.
But as the careworn cheek grows wan, And sorrow's shafts fly thicker, Ye stars, that measure life to man, Why seem your courses quicker?
When joys have lost their bloom and breath, And life itself is vapid, Why, as we reach the Falls of Death Feel we its tide more rapid?
It may be strange—yet who would change Time's course to slower speeding, When one by one our friends have gone, And left our bosoms bleeding?
Heaven gives our years of fading strength Indemnifying fleetness; And those of youth, a seeming length, Proportion'd to their sweetness.
- Thomas Campbell
Meditation exercises have existed for thousands of years and are included in the practice of many religions. It helps keep the mind, soul, and body relaxed and focused and should be enjoyed by everyone irrespective of age or personal preferences. Some meditation activities can be enjoyed by everyone anywhere, anytime.
Dancing
Dancing is a fun way to relieve stress, calm one’s nerves and focus. It exercises the body, improves posture, improves blood circulation, releases repressed tension, and is also a fun aerobic exercise. With the right music and an adequate level of encouragement, anyone can dance. It doesn’t need to be perfect; express your emotions.
Painting
This form of art is as old as humankind. It has evolved from a means of communication or telling stories to a way of releasing one’s emotions. It can be practiced by everyone, irrespective of the age group. Adult coloring books are also available even if you are not a good artist. Painting is a very effective way of meditating and relaxing and is therapeutic. Art and color therapy like Aura-soma is used to treat people with disorders related to stress and emotional problems. Doodling or coloring also helps calm toddlers, keeping them occupied and sharpening their minds.
Gardening
Mother nature has always found a way to help humanity, and it is commonly said that not everyone has a green thumb, but often it’s because it’s not done the right way. Gardening is a fun way to keep the whole family indulged in something together. You get to grow fresh and healthy vegetables, fruits, or herbs for consumption, but you can also grow herbs for Natural remedies like homeopathic remedies and aromatherapy. With mother nature, it’s a win-win for everyone!
Knitting
Frequently people see this as an activity for the older age groups, but it might interest you to know that everyone can enjoy this. Knitting is very soothing, and it keeps your mind relaxed and focused. You don’t only get unique crochet designs, but it also teaches you patience and dedication. It’s also fun to spend quality quiet time with your loved ones. It’s a fun way to connect with your baby because that lovely cap or blanket might be your baby’s favorite. Expectant mothers can indulge in this, too.
Eating
Eating is the ultimate fun way to meditate and relieve stress; you heard that right. Who doesn’t enjoy a good meal? The most important thing is to eat healthy and decent portions. So the next time you feel like your mind is all over the place and have a splitting headache, it might just be hunger. Try out different cuisines and cooking styles if possible Learning a few, cooking also helps relax one’s mind, your hands are busy, but your mind is focused.
Walking
Taking a walk is not just a good exercise tip but another effective way of meditating. This is the most ordinary and easiest way to meditate. It keeps you focused. Those few minutes of taking a solo walk can help your mind think better and release emotions like anger and frustration, and people tend to think clearly after taking a walk.
Music
Music, they say, is medicine for the soul. From lullabies for babies to Pop, Reggae, Jazz, Blues, Heavy metal, to Country music, there is something for everyone. Not only is music an effective way of meditating, but it also has healing properties and has long been used as a healing remedy. There are accounts of this in the Bible, and in Greek culture, Apollo was the god of music and healing.
Yoga
Yoga originates in India, dating back more than 5000 years ago, and it wasn’t quite common until the 1960s when the Beatles met yogi Maharishi Mahesh. There are different asanas for different age groups, and even for medical conditions, the slow, calming movements and breathing techniques help relax the mind and body. All age groups can practice them. Popular asanas include the Corpse, Cobra, and Sun salutation.
Taiichi
Taiichi is mainly practiced in China; it is used as a defense technique and another way to calm the mind and body. It requires patience, time, and concentration as it consists of smooth and balanced movements, controlled and regular breathing, and remembering how one progresses from one sequence to another.
Breathing exercises
Breathing exercise is used in many meditation activities. An excellent example of a breathing exercise is 7-1, 7-1. It involves inhaling for seven seconds, holding for one second, exhaling for seven seconds, and pausing for one second.
Massage
Massages are not only relaxing. They are therapeutic, especially with essential oils and calm, soothing music. Giving your child a good body massage keeps them healthier too.
Drink tea
Tea or coffee, whatever suits you best, is acceptable. The feeling of a hot cup of tea or coffee keeps you calm. It relaxes your nerves, and the aroma soothes you. Looking up to the sky allows the cosmos to remind you that life is more extensive than all your worries, anxieties, or fears.