Taming the Monkey Mind: Why a Busy Brain is Perfect for Meditation
This week, I had the honour of being the Wellness Presenter at the Albany Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s annual Women in Leadership Forum for International Women’s Day. Throughout the day, I led three short Mindful Moments, the first of which was a meditation. Many attendees later told me how much they enjoyed it, but most added, “I’d love to meditate regularly, but my brain is just too busy.”
This is one of the biggest misconceptions about meditation—the idea that a busy mind means you can’t meditate. But what if I told you that having a restless, racing mind is actually the perfect reason to meditate?
Instead of seeing an overactive mind as a barrier to mindfulness, we can shift our perspective: meditation isn’t about stopping thoughts, but about observing them. Your thoughts will come and go, just like clouds passing in the sky. With practice, you’ll learn to gently return to the present moment without frustration or judgment.
If you’ve ever struggled with meditation, you’re not alone. But the good news is, you don’t have to be perfectly still or have a perfectly quiet mind to benefit from mindfulness. Here are some simple ways to make meditation work for you, rather than against you.
1. Keep a Notebook Nearby
If your mind is buzzing with to-dos, ideas, and reminders, try keeping a notebook next to you while you meditate. When something important pops up, jot it down, then return to your breath or your chosen meditation focus. This small act helps reassure your brain that you won’t forget anything, making it easier to settle into your practice.
2. Meditation Doesn’t Have to Mean Sitting Still
If sitting in silence feels like torture, remember that meditation comes in many forms. Walking, yoga, tai chi, mindful eating, and even washing the dishes can be meditative when done with full awareness. Choose a practice that feels natural for you.
3. Find the Best Time for You
Morning meditation is often recommended, but it’s not for everyone. If your mornings are chaotic, try a short session before bed to help with sleep, or a midday meditation during your lunch break. A few mindful breaths between tasks can be just as beneficial as a longer seated practice.
4. A Little Goes a Long Way
Consistency matters more than duration. Meditating for five minutes a day is far more effective than attempting an hour-long session once in a while. Start small and see what feels right—you may find yourself naturally wanting more over time.
5. Track Your Progress for Motivation
Sometimes, a little accountability helps keep us on track. Apps like Insight Timer or simply marking meditation days on a calendar can give you a sense of accomplishment. Seeing your streak grow can be a great motivator!
Meditation is for Every Mind
Your monkey mind isn’t a problem—it’s a sign that you need meditation, and that you’re human! With a few simple adjustments, mindfulness can become an accessible and rewarding practice, even for the busiest of minds.
