Meditation is generally beneficial, but there are times or situations where it might not be the best option. That happened to me this morning. I got up in a rush and missed my morning meditation, but as I was out walking I noticed myself naturally talking about things I appreciated; simple things like the fantastic weather, that my doctor really seems to care about me, and how my cats provide me with endless companionship and entertainment. Knowing that I can play a meditating game in almost any situation I decided to pause and prepare to quiet my mind by focusing on counting aloud every 5 steps — but it felt ‘off’. It was counterproductive, and the reason for that can be found about half way down the page. — Elizabeth Richardson (Author)
Here are examples of when meditating may not be ideal:
1. During Acute Emotional Distress or Trauma.
✽ Why: When someone is in the middle of a severe panic attack, intense grief, or re-living trauma, meditation can amplify distress by encouraging focus on overwhelming feelings.✽ Better alternative: Engage in grounding exercises, such as physical activity, deep breathing without introspection, or distraction techniques.
2. When You’re Sleep-Deprived.
✽ Why: Meditation requires some degree of focus, which can be challenging when exhausted. It may lead to frustration or simply falling asleep. ✽ Better alternative: Rest or nap first, then try a light meditative practice like a body scan.
3. Where Focusing Could Worsen Certain Mental Health Challenges.
✽ Why: Conditions like severe depression or anxiety where meditation might encourage someone to spend too much time analysing negative thoughts or feelings, can deepen rumination or hopelessness instead of providing relief. Psychosis involves a disconnect from reality, and inward-focused practices might amplify detachment or hallucinations rather than grounding the person. ✽ Better alternative: Explore active, external-focus practices like walking in nature or guided activities designed for mental health, such as mindfulness with a professional’s support.
4. Immediately After Eating a Heavy Meal.
✽ Why: The body focuses on digestion, which can make meditation uncomfortable or lead to sleepiness. ✽ Better alternative: Wait 30–60 minutes after eating or try light, movement-based mindfulness, such as yoga.
5. When It Becomes an Obsession or Compulsion.
✽ Why: Using meditation as a way to escape or “fix” life can create an unhealthy relationship with the practice, especially if it replaces real-world action. ✽ Better alternative: Balance meditation with intentional action to address life’s challenges.
6. In Dangerous Situations.
✽ Why: Situations requiring your full attention, such as driving or handling machinery, are not appropriate for meditating. ✽ Better alternative: Use mindfulness techniques like observing your surroundings or practicing awareness instead.
7. When You’re Pressured or Unwilling.
✽ Why: Forcing yourself to meditate when you’re not ready or interested can create resistance and negative associations with the practice. ✽ Better alternative: Engage in a more playful, low-pressure activity like journaling or doodling to reconnect with yourself.
8. When Experiencing Severe Pain Without Guidance.
✽ Why: While meditation can help manage chronic pain, focusing on pain without guidance can intensify discomfort. ✽ Better alternative: Try a professionally guided meditation or pain-relief technique like progressive relaxation.
When Meditating is Taking a Step Backwards
Meditation is often celebrated as a tool to calm the mind, align with your inner self, and find peace amid life’s chaos. Most of the time, it lives up to its reputation. But believe it or not, there are moments when meditating isn’t just unnecessary — it could actually slow your momentum. The most notable example? When you’re already in a state of pure appreciation.
What is Pure Appreciation?
Pure appreciation is that magical state when you’re riding high on the wave of joy, thankfulness, and connection to all that’s good. It might happen when you’re marvelling at a breathtaking view, feeling deep appreciation for someone you love, or simply savouring the perfection of a quiet moment. It’s expansive. It’s light. It’s effortless. It’s alignment. As Abraham Hicks describes, pure appreciation is “the closest vibration to Source energy.” In this state, you’re already operating at the highest frequency, fully connected to your inner being. Meditation, while amazing for reaching alignment, is designed to help you find that frequency—not to disrupt the flow you’re already basking in.
Why Meditation Can Be Unhelpful When You’re Feeling High.
Meditation works by quieting the mind, releasing resistance, and bringing you back into alignment. But when you’re in a state of pure appreciation, resistance is already gone. Your mind is naturally calm, your heart is wide open, and your focus is effortlessly on what feels good. Attempting to meditate in this state can actually pull you out of the flow by redirecting your attention inward when it’s meant to stay outward, basking in the beauty and momentum of the moment. Science supports this idea. Research from the University of California, Berkeley, shows that awe and gratitude activate the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering stress and enhancing feelings of connection and well-being — effects similar to those achieved through meditation. In other words, when you’re in a state of appreciation, you’re already reaping meditation’s benefits without having to sit cross-legged and close your eyes.
What to Do Instead of Meditating.
When you’re in pure appreciation, there’s no need to try to amplify or shift your vibration. Instead, your role is to expand and savour the energy you’re already in. Here’s how:
1. Enjoy the Moment: Take a deep breath, and soak it all in. Notice the little details—the colours, sounds, textures, and emotions. Let the moment fill you completely.
2. Create From It: Pure appreciation is a launchpad for inspired action. Write, draw, dance, or brainstorm ideas while you’re in this high-vibrational state. Creative flow thrives here.
3. Share the Energy: Call a friend, post your thoughts online, or simply smile at someone. Sharing your joy spreads your high vibe and lifts others along with you.
4. Be Still and Bask: Sometimes, the best thing to do is nothing. Let the moment be complete without needing to add or do anything else. Simply be in the joy.
When Meditation Becomes Useful Again.
While pure appreciation is a beautiful place to be, life is dynamic, and contrast is inevitable. When resistance creeps back in or you feel a need to reset your focus, meditation becomes your trusty tool for recalibrating. Think of it as the vibrational tuning fork you can return to whenever you need a gentle nudge back into alignment. Pure appreciation is the pinnacle of alignment. When you’re there, meditation is not only unnecessary — it can feel like taking a step backward. Instead, embrace the energy, savour the moment, and let it carry you forward into inspired action. Meditation will always be there when you need it, but in those high-flying moments of love and appreciation, simply let yourself soar. That’s the real game worth playing.
Can’t Quiet Your Mind When You Do Try to Meditate?
If sitting in silence feels like a battle with your thoughts, you’re not alone. Traditional meditation isn’t always the easiest path to calm, especially when your mind is racing. That’s why we developed Reading Meditations—a refreshing alternative designed to guide you gently through calming words and soothing phrases. These meditations meet you where you are and help you rise naturally, step by step. No forcing focus. No overthinking. Just ease. Explore the options below and let the words do the work.
