Thanks to the rise of guided apps and celebrity endorsements, meditation has recently entered the mainstream, but if you struggle to quiet your mind—not to mention find the time to simply sit still—you’re not alone. So, why bother? To state it clearly, “It is the most effective way to manage stress,” says doctor and self-help guru Deepak Chopra. What’s more? Eventually, he adds, “It opens the door to your spirit, the field of infinite possibilities.” Here, find out how to jumpstart your practice, from easy breathing exercises to tips on how to fit meditation and mindfulness into even the most hectic of lifestyles.