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Dr Christine Shen (Acupuncturist) often encourages clients to pair their care with a few quiet minutes of meditation. Here is a simple practice you can try at home, step by step.

Stillness between appointments

An acupuncture session offers a rare hour of stillness, but what happens in the days in between? Dr Christine Shen (Acupuncturist) often suggests that clients at her Lane Cove and Freshwater practice carry some of that calm home with a short daily meditation. It needs no special equipment, just a little time and a willingness to sit with yourself.

Why a few quiet minutes matter

Most of us only notice how much we rely on our bodies when something feels wrong. Meditation offers a way to check in before then: to sit, breathe and pay kind attention to how you are. Many people say it helps them feel more relaxed and present. The research on meditation is still developing, so think of it as a gentle wellbeing practice that sits alongside care from your GP, not instead of it.

A simple home practice

Set the scene

Pick a time when you are unlikely to be disturbed. Put your phone on silent or airplane mode. If you enjoy scent, a drop of frankincense or patchouli oil in a diffuser can make the room feel calmer, though it is best avoided if you have asthma, are pregnant or react to fragrance.

Settle your body

Lie down or sit in a supportive chair, keeping your spine long. Rest your hands loosely. Close your eyes or let your gaze soften toward the floor.

Follow the breath

Breathe in slowly through your nose, let your belly rise, then breathe out a little more slowly than you breathed in. Repeat for a few minutes, letting each exhale feel softer.

Picture water and green

Imagine standing beneath a gentle waterfall, letting the water carry away whatever feels heavy today. Then imagine a soft green light around your chest. In yogic tradition, green is linked with the heart chakra, and many people find the image soothing.

Rest

Stay with the stillness for as long as feels comfortable. If thoughts drift in, notice them and return to your breath. When you are ready, wiggle your fingers and toes and open your eyes slowly.

Keeping it going

Five minutes each morning or evening is a good place to start. Over time, many people find it becomes a part of the day they look forward to.