I have many friends who ask me where to start when it comes to meditation, and I always recommend guided meditations for their first few sittings. It takes a lot of will power, patience, and focus to sit in silence for 10-15 minutes, especially when no one is telling you what to do. It can also be a scary experience for some people, as sitting in silence can be uncomfortable, overwhelming, and frustrating. I feel comfort in having a voice guide my meditation experience, especially when I am practicing a new form of meditation.

Here are a few of my favourite guided meditations for beginners.

TIP: Try to shop around for a voice that you find soothing and relaxing, but not one that makes you fall asleep! Also, give the meditation a chance. Sit with the meditation 3-4 times, and if you still don’t feel like it is a good style for you, switch it up.

1. Mindfulness meditations from UCLA.

2. Self-healing meditation from Lissa Rankin.

3. Relaxation meditations from the McGill counseling department.

4. Headspace – a cool app for guided meditations (but not free!).

5. The Free Mindfulness Project.

6. The Chopra Centre guided meditations.

7. Meditation Oasis Podcast.

8. Audio Dharma talks.