Meditation Is Beyond Sitting Cross-Legged in Lotus Posture: It Looks Different for Everyone

When many people think of meditation, the image that often comes to mind is one of someone sitting cross-legged in a lotus posture, surrounded by candles, incense, and perhaps a calming soundscape. While this is a beautiful and powerful form of meditation, it’s not the only way to connect with a sense of inner peace or mindfulness. Meditation can look different for everyone—it’s not about fitting into a specific mold or following a rigid practice, but rather about finding what works for you and what allows you to tap into a sense of stillness, presence, and awareness.

Meditation Is a Personal Journey

The first thing to understand about meditation is that it’s a deeply personal experience. It’s not about adhering to a one-size-fits-all routine or set of instructions. Meditation, at its core, is a way to quiet the mind, cultivate mindfulness, and connect to the present moment. But how you do that, and what that looks like, is up to you.

For some, meditation might mean sitting in stillness, with their legs crossed and their eyes closed. For others, it might involve moving or engaging in an activity that helps them feel grounded and connected. There is no wrong way to meditate—what matters is the intention behind it and how it helps you feel more centered, aware, and at peace with yourself.

Movement-Based Meditation

For those who struggle with sitting still or find it hard to quiet the mind in a seated posture, movement-based meditation might be a more accessible option. Practices like yoga, tai chi, or walking meditation are all powerful forms of meditation that incorporate movement while still fostering mindfulness and presence.

In yoga, for instance, the flowing movements and focus on breath help create a meditative state. Instead of forcing the body into stillness, yoga allows the body to move freely while still cultivating a sense of inner calm. Walking meditation similarly combines the act of walking with mindful awareness, allowing you to connect with each step while clearing the mind.

Movement can be a way for people who find stillness difficult to channel their energy and find a meditative state. The key is to stay present, focus on the sensations in your body, and bring your awareness to each moment, whether you’re moving or still.

Active Meditation

Some people may find traditional forms of seated meditation to be intimidating or challenging. For them, active meditation may be the perfect practice. Active meditation can take many forms, including journaling, painting, dancing, or even doing housework with full mindfulness. These activities allow you to focus on the present moment and engage with your surroundings while still experiencing a meditative state.

For example, journaling can be a deeply meditative practice when you use it as a tool for reflection and letting go. Writing freely without judgment or expectation can help clear your mind and deepen your connection to yourself. Similarly, dancing can be an expression of freedom and presence, where the rhythm and movement allow you to release tension and become more aware of your body and emotions.

The beauty of active meditation is that it allows you to practice mindfulness through activities that feel natural and enjoyable to you, rather than forcing yourself into a posture or practice that may not resonate with your personality or lifestyle.

Meditation in Everyday Life

Meditation doesn’t always have to be a separate activity you carve out time for in your day. In fact, one of the most powerful ways to meditate is by bringing mindfulness into your everyday activities. You can meditate while doing the dishes, cooking, or even driving—anything that allows you to be present in the moment.

Mindful eating is a great example of integrating meditation into your daily routine. Instead of rushing through meals or eating on autopilot, try taking the time to savor each bite, paying attention to the flavors, textures, and sensations as you eat. By focusing on the present moment and fully engaging with the activity, you can create a meditative experience without needing to "set aside" time for traditional meditation.

Similarly, the simple act of taking a few deep breaths while sitting at your desk or walking outside can be a form of meditation. It’s not about the duration of the practice or how "formal" it is—it’s about cultivating a mindful presence throughout your day.

Guided Meditation and Technology

For some, traditional meditation practices can feel intimidating or overwhelming, especially if you're just starting out. Fortunately, technology has made it easier than ever to access guided meditation resources. Apps like Headspace, Calm, or Insight Timer offer a wide variety of guided meditations that cater to different needs, from relaxation and stress relief to focus and sleep.

Listening to a guided meditation can be an excellent way to ease into the practice if you're unsure how to start or if you're seeking specific guidance. With different techniques such as body scans, breathing exercises, or visualizations, guided meditations help you connect with your inner world in a way that feels comfortable and accessible.

Meditation Is About Intention, Not Posture

Ultimately, the beauty of meditation lies in its flexibility. It’s about the intention to be present, to quiet the mind, and to cultivate mindfulness, no matter what form that takes. Whether it’s a moment of stillness, a breath of fresh air, a few minutes of movement, or simply being fully present in your daily activities, meditation can take many shapes.

The key is to find what feels right for you and what allows you to connect with your inner peace. It’s not about how it looks or whether you follow a specific "correct" form; it’s about the intention behind the practice and how it serves you.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Unique Meditation Journey

Meditation is a deeply personal and transformative practice, and it’s important to remember that it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s practice. Whether you prefer stillness, movement, or a combination of both, the most important thing is finding what works for you. So, if sitting cross-legged in lotus posture doesn’t resonate with you, that’s okay—there are countless other ways to connect with yourself and cultivate mindfulness.

Trust that your meditation journey is unique, and allow yourself to explore the many different ways you can find peace and presence in your life. In the end, meditation is about creating a deeper connection to yourself, and that connection can take many different forms.