Various Ways to Meditate

Can we achieve the same benefits as a meditation session by simply exercising or taking a walk? Absolutely, explain these wellness and beauty experts.

Cooking

“Cooking brings me gently into a meditative state and a (re)connection with nature. It starts with a trip to the market, where I select each fruit and vegetable according to the season. Then, it involves touch: I clean them and remove the soil. Chopping vegetables and monitoring their cooking thrusts me into a moment of intense relaxation. In many ways, cooking and meditation resemble each other: ritual, engagement of the senses, concentration. And even gratitude, as I also associate the pleasure of cooking with the good I do for my body.”

Establishing a daily routine

“I have a busy professional life with a lot of traveling. To truly disconnect, I've created a simple but consistent daily routine that provides me with both focus and regeneration throughout the day. In the morning, I drink a glass of warm water with lemon or a cup of Kinkéliba (an African plant nicknamed the 'longevity tea'). During the day, I walk while listening to music. Lastly, I need eight hours of sleep to regenerate and feel productive the next day.”

Taking the time to observe nature

“Several times a day, I stop to become aware of the moment. It brings me so much happiness; it can be triggered by a sunbeam, the smell of a pile of dead leaves, a child's laughter... Nature remains, for me, the greatest source of inspiration and meditation. In the mountains, in a field, or by the sea, everything brings us back to humility, simplicity, authenticity, the good, and the beautiful.”

Writing

“My writing ritual starts early in the morning, around 4 a.m., after a few cups of coffee. This morning and daily routine allows me to find the necessary tranquility to immerse myself in the act of writing. Writing has become essential for my balance. I practice emotional and intuitive writing. It is dictated by the heart or gut, engaging me in a kind of silent meditation that deeply connects me to myself and my audience.”

Practicing CrossFit

“I often meditate, but I get exactly the same benefits from an hour of CrossFit! Three times a week, I engage in this gym-based training that combines fitness and strength exercises. There's a mental challenge; you have to push yourself and persevere until the end, even when it's tough. You're in the present moment, attentive both physically (to avoid injury) and mentally (counting each set). I go even if I'm tired or slightly unwell: like meditation, sports require commitment and discipline. For an hour, you don't think about anything else; you let go of everything, and at the end, you feel proud, both soothed and stronger.”