What is meditation?
Meditation, a form of stress reduction, involves sitting quietly and focusing
on one object, thought, or physical sensation for a fixed period of time.
The practice helps the mind relax, increases awareness, mental focus and
clarity,
resulting in a sense of peace. Research has shown that blood pressure decreases
and muscle tension relaxes as a result of meditation.
What are the different meditation techniques?
Meditation involves concentration on something to take our attention beyond
the random thought activity that is usually going on in our heads. The breath
is a common focal point. Guided visualization is also considered by some
to be a form of meditation. A guided visualization can help to bring one
into
a meditative state.
What are the recommended guidelines for meditation?
- Develop a consistent daily routine, choosing a quiet place with little
or no distractions.
- Keep your spine straight, and your chin tucked while avoiding stiffening
or tensing your back or neck muscles.
- Focus on your breathing, concentrating on the rhythm as you breathe
deeply in and out.
- Do not go into each session with specific expectations. Do not overanalyze
or try to force something to happen. Instead, allow yourself to relax.
- Remember there is no “right way” to meditate. There is
no set criterion for your personal meditation, so allow yourself to find
the methods
that work
best for you.
Additional information about meditation can be found at www.meditationcenter.com, www.meditationsociety.com and www.learningmeditation.com.
