MEDITATION

MEDITATION

Meditation is an excellent tool to use for lowering stress, depression, or to be better able to live in the moment. What is living in the moment? Well, it's being able to enjoy being alive--noticing life in the moment, rather than worrying or thinking about the past or future. Got it?

Meditating on a regular basis will help you to be able to handle the stresses of life in a much healthier and productive manner. In a sense you are able to think more clearly and not get "caught up" by minor events. Thus, no one can ruin your day!

Meditation can be useful for physical ailments as well. It can help to lower blood pressure and studies suggest it can boost the immune system.

There are several types of meditation techniques to choose from. There are guided meditation techniques usually designed to guide you to a serene enviornment. There are many CD's available in stores from which to choose.

Transcendental meditation is an excellent technique, but usually requires a fee to learn, as it is considered an old and sacred meditation. It is well worth the cost.

Breathing techniques used in meditation are very effective also. Here is one that is very simple and highly effective:

First, find a place where it is completely quiet (no music or tv) and dim or turn off the lights. Sit in a comfortable chair with both feet on the floor and your hands on your lap. Close your eyes.

Next, close your eyes and take 3-5 deep breaths to begin relaxing. Breath in (slowly) through your nose filling your lungs until they are full. Hold for 3 seconds and breath out through your mouth. When you release your breath through your mouth, make sure you empty your lungs completely. Repeat 2-4 more times until you feel some of the stress has left your body.

Now, breath normally in through your nose and out through your nose (yes nose). Focus all of your attention on your breathing. Feel the air go in through your nose, filling your lungs and the breath leaving your lungs. Feel the air in your nose....feel the temperature, etc..

If you feel your mind wander (it probably will) just notice the thought or noise, (if you are distracted by a noise) and bring your attention back to your breathing. Try not to get frustrated at yourself if your mind wanders. Simply bring your attention back to your breathing. After you have made this a practice, you will find that your mind will not wander as much. Your mind will become clear of the "clutter". I would do this for at least 20-30 minutes twice per day. Thirty minutes is best.

I encourage you to continue meditating for a happier healthier YOU!

~Sam