Basic Tips for Meditation

“If there is no meditation, then you are like a blind man in a world of great beauty, light, and color.” -Krishnamurti

The wise teachers and great yogis of our world suggest that if we can still our minds, even for a few moments each day, we can obtain a peace of mind which normally eludes us and begin to relieve stress and prevent frustration.

Though turning on the television or surfing the net (even if you’re reading yoga blogs) may help you unwind, these activities are not in themselves restorative.  They may focus your attention, but they do not still your mind.

To access the inner wisdom locked deep within our subconscious we must first learn to still the restless mind.  The true goal of meditation is to get beyond the ego and the illusion of separation.

Along the way, meditation leads to a positive attitude and calm disposition.

Basic Principles of Seated Meditation

• Try to create a routine and establish a habit of meditation
• Choose the same time each day to practice
• Choose a place without distractions, turn off your phone, computer, television, etc.
• Sit in a comfortable chair to prop the spine straight or sit in a yoga posture with your back, head, and neck in a straight line
• When thoughts arise, do not let them distract you- observe thoughts with indifference
• Return to the anchor of your breath (count breaths if it helps in groups of 3 or 10)
• You might try to focus your gaze on a still object like a flame, mandala, or use your minds eye to visualize a white dot
• Above all relax
• Don’t try too hard, it gets easier with practice!