Meditation Basics
submitted: 2008-04-08 07:00:50 |
by: KeiraAdams
Total views: 21 |
Word Count: 579 |
| 
What is meditation, and is it as complicated as it appears? The answer to the second question is definitely "no". The first question will take a little more explanation, which will also help to explain why meditation is easier than it might seem to be.
When you meditate, your body and mind are in a state of purposeful focus and rest. You will have sharpened consciousness of both your outer environment and your inner self.
There are many different ways to practice meditation. Fundamentally, however, the main beliefs are similar. The key to a successful meditation experience is to still your mind by flushing out negative thoughts and emotions through deep focus. Later, your thoughts will be less scattered and your actions more purposeful.
Think of it as housekeeping of your inner being. Your negative thoughts and emotions (think of how you react to traffic jams, telemarketers, and your neighbor's new Lexus) are what "pollute" your mind. Meditation "cleanses" the mind, allowing you to focus on the things that really matter.
"Where" is as Important as "How"
The practice of meditation will work best in a calming environment. Pick the room in your house where you feel most comfortable. If there are others at home, pick a location where you can close the door and block out their noise. Turn the phone off, and make sure there are no loud appliances running, like the dishwasher.
Once meditating is part of your routine, you'll likely want some extras to enhance the experience. Calming meditation tapes, some aromatic candles and a meditation chair or pillow will help to set the stage.
Get Comfortable
You've probably seen the typical pictures of people meditating, twisted up like a pretzel with impeccable posture. You'll be relieved to know that this isn't at all necessary. The idea is to be comfortably positioned so you can focus on your meditation, not your screaming muscles. You can sit cross-legged with your back against the wall, you can lie down, stand up and even walk around.
However, you need to keep your back straight if you're sitting or standing. No slouching allowed, or you might just fall asleep. To help you be more comfortable in your preferred pose, you should wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing so that you're not focusing on your circulation being cut off. You have more essential things to focus on.
Just Concentrate
A mantra can be a useful part of a meditation routine. A mantra is a word or sound that is continuously repeated, and you should be focused your mantra alone during meditation. Find a meaningful phrase or a certain word, or even just a sound that resonates with you. Although not totally necessary, a mantra will help you to really focus on your breathing and take you to a higher state of consciousness.
The key to a successful meditation experience is focus. Choose an object in your mind or in your line of vision, and concentrate on it to the exclusion of everything else. The same applies to a specific thought as well as to your mantra.
For a simple routine to get you started, start by settling yourself in your chosen sanctuary. Close your eyes, and envision each part of your body, from the top down or bottom up, it doesn't matter. Silently name each part as you think of it, and give it your full attention. You'll immediately notice if there's tension or discomfort in that particular location. In your mind, visualize the tension leaving that body part. You'll be amazed at the results.
About the Author
Keira Adams writes about women's wellness, including meditation techniques. If you want to know more about this calming practice, visit Meditation-Info.
Comments
No comments posted.
You do not have permission to comment. If you log in, you may be able to comment.
