A brilliant coach turned dear friend of mine often says, “The only thing required for genius is a great state.” I think of this often when I’m in a funk, wake up overwhelmed, or can’t find my creative flow.
Years ago, my therapist recommended the Ten Percent Happier app (opens in new tab), an extension of the book and podcast by Dan Harris (opens in new tab). What I love most about it is the variety of options it offers. From a five-minute guided meditation to twenty minutes on your own to a few minutes of resetting while driving, the offerings are extensive. I’ve never used the app and not thought, “Why don’t I do that more often?”
The word meditation can be intimidating, if not woo-woo-sounding to many. This app (and all the ancillary offerings from Harris) make it not only simple and approachable but also explains the neuroscience behind the practice. A simple Google search of what studies have found about the brains of meditators is a good start if you’re a skeptic, and if you’ve had any interest in starting meditation or making it a more common practice, this app is a must-try.