How to Begin Meditating

The Creative Independent / April 2020
Tips from filmmaker and meditator Joshua Sanchez for using meditation as a tool to alleviate stress and anxiety, and to awaken a positive sense of self in the midst of intense uncertainty.
Ocean on a Cloudy Day
Photo by Joshua Sanchez

Many people discover meditation in times of trouble, and for good reason. It’s a powerful tool to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression by awakening a positive sense of self and providing stability in the midst of intense uncertainty.


I’d like to start off by telling you that I’m not a meditation teacher or an expert. I encourage you to explore the practice and its origins on your own and come to your own conclusions about its effectiveness. I take meditation mostly as a tool, not a belief system, although I’ve found studying the Buddhist dharma to be useful and engaging. If you’re allergic to religion (as I am), let me reassure you that although meditation stems from Buddhism, you don’t have to be a Buddhist to meditate.