Is meditation for everyone?

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We're told just five minutes of meditation a day can alleviate stress, improve sleep, and boost performance both at work and in the gym. But while a lucky few seem to be a mere breath away from enlightenment, the rest of us struggle with the art. So should we, and could we, all practice a little meditation, or is it an innate skill? We asked the experts.

Andy Puddicombe, co-founder of the meditation app Headspace

Many people find meditation challenging to begin with, but like any skill it just takes time. This is often to do with the feeling of expectation. When "nothing" happens, we lose some of our enthusiasm. We forget that it is not about making something happen, but simply being present for the exercise. Meditation isn't about trying to control or quiet the mind. It is about being at ease with your mind. My tips for beginners are to think, "same time, same place", to get into a good routine. If possible, don't meditate before bed. Do bring your attention back to your breathing if your mind wanders. Lastly, don't try to force it.

Michael Chaskalson, author of The Mindful Workplace

Meditation can be incredibly powerful - you're learning to choose your thoughts - but it won't necessarily make us calmer. There are usually two reasons for this. One is that people try to empty their minds; the other is that we feel too busy to stop. First, meditation isn't about emptying the mind, but instead noticing your thoughts, and shifting attention to breathing. Secondly, you can let your mind wander. My advice is to start using audio guidance, which can be downloaded via some good apps. Everyone has to find their own way to make it work.

Dr Joe Oliver, clinical psychologist, co-author of ACTivate Your Life

Formal mindfulness meditation is intentionally practising being aware of your thoughts, emotions or sensations as they show up in the present. With time, you can develop the skills to notice your auto-pilot reactions to experiences and help to reduce their impact on your life. But formal mindfulness practice is not for everyone. It is one way to develop the skills to pause and step back from our busy minds - but not the only way. I tell beginners to be flexible in how they bring mindfulness into their lives. For example, try mindfully eating a juicy, ripe strawberry, becoming absorbed in the colours, tastes and textures. Or mindfully draw in the special smell of a brand new book - both recall the qualities of mindfulness and help us to pause and appreciate life a little more.