The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase. Though the history of meditation dates back thousands of years, it's become increasingly popular in recent years, with everyone from CEOs and Hollywood celebrities to your next door neighbor and family members explaining the way the practice has improved their lives. In theory, meditation sounds simple enough — sit down in a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on your breath.