The Raisin Exercise And How It Can Help You

Although there is a lot of talk about the benefits of meditation these days, you may think that it is too complex or too demanding to practice on your own. The raisin exercise is proof that this is not true. According to this, meditation is a simple activity that does not take up too much of your time and it will help you relax in a few minutes.

The raisin exercise is a training technique that aims to develop concentration and attention, but also to practice breathing. The act of breathing is fundamental in all forms of meditation, as everything else depends on it.

You will be happy to know that the raisin exercise is  especially recommended for those who do not have much experience with meditation. It is an exercise that will help you become familiar with this kind of practice. It is therefore highly recommended when you feel particularly anxious or when you are going through a difficult experience.

The importance of breathing

It is fundamental that you handle your breathing, in any relaxation exercise. If you breathe properly, you will oxygenate your entire body, especially your brain. It will help your body and mind to start working at a slower pace.

As a rule, anxious people take fast and shallow breaths. If you are able to stop for a moment and breathe deeply, your mind and emotions will stabilize. 

The first thing you need to keep in mind is that you should breathe through your nose, with your mouth closed. Moreover, you should always breathe through through your nose and never with your lips half open. Likewise, when you breathe deeply in and out, your stomach needs to move in and out. 

It is best that you start by simply focusing your attention on the way you breathe. Do not try to control or change your breathing. The desire to control everything or do everything correctly is an obstacle. If you pay attention to your breathing in a natural and spontaneous way, then it will automatically start to slow down.

The raisin exercise

The raisin exercise is actually very simple. To perform it, you just need three raisins. You also need to find a quiet place. A place where you can be alone and you know you will not be disturbed. Next, simply take one of the raisins and eat it as naturally as you normally would.

The second part of the exercise consists of concentrating on your breathing. After this, put the other raisin in your mouth. This time, do not eat it mechanically. Instead, from the moment you put it in your mouth,  try to notice its texture and taste. 

Take your time and chew it slowly. Try to notice how the fruit touches your tongue, your teeth, palate and throat. Try to follow its movements as far as you are able.

Finally, eat the third raisin. Before putting it in your mouth, observe it carefully. Move it slowly with your fingers to feel its texture, and smell it with your eyes closed so you can pick up its aroma.

Next, if you wish, you can cut it in two halves. After this, put it in your mouth, without following any particular pattern. And, that’s it!

The meaning of the exercise

The goal of meditation is to slow down the thoughts and feelings that are in your mind. However, this is not easy to achieve as your emotions are constantly invading your life and affecting your thoughts. To begin with, you will probably reject the idea of ​​emptying your mind.

The raisin exercise is a training exercise that helps you, little by little,  achieve the goal of eradicating the thoughts and emotions that invade your mind. By focusing your attention on a single point and letting yourself think it to the end, you will begin to clear your mind. This will create a sense of transparency and renewal.

If you are feeling angry or anxious, this exercise is a great way to relax. The good thing about the exercise is that you can make it with any fruit. However, it is recommended to use raisins because they are small and have many interesting properties.

What are you waiting for? Try this exercise to see if it works for you or not!