How to Meditate

- By: Juliet Cohen, 2007-12-09

Meditation is the art of silencing the mind. When the mind is silent, concentration is increased and we experience inner peace in the midst of worldly turmoil. We can learn how to transform our mind from negative to positive, from disturbed to peaceful, from unhappy to happy. Overcoming negative minds and cultivating constructive thoughts is the purpose of the transforming meditations found in the Buddhist tradition. Meditating a few minutes each day is a proven stress reducer, and it can improve your view of life as well. Various types of meditation that are recognized include transcendental meditation, prayer, Zen meditation, Taoist meditation, mindfulness meditation, and Buddhist meditation. Meditation is a practice that brings about not only physical benefits, but psychological benefits as well.

Some methods of meditation may require the body being absolutely still or to be moved with controlled deliberation, while other types allow for free movement of the body. It isn’t difficult to meditate, but it most certainly requires a few elements that are required to maintain an atmosphere that is conducive to meditation. To get the most from meditation you need to do it every day. This requires a place and time where you will not be disturbed. Sit with a straight back. Don’t try to meditate lying down because you are likely to fall asleep. Meditation brings relaxation and peace but at the same time this is a dynamic peace. Meditation is quite different than the relaxation of sleep. Don’t eat before meditating. After a heavy meal your body will be lethargic with digestion.

Observe your breath. Don't try to change the way you are breathing, just let your attention rest on the flow of your breath. The goal is to allow the "chattering" in your mind to gradually fade away. Relax every muscle in your body. Don't rush this, as it takes time to fully relax, and relax bit by bit, starting at your toes, and working up to your head. Take a meditation retreat of at least a few days. Some of these are silent, others are not. Once you experience the feel of actually meditating, you will better know how and if it applies to your life. Some of the benefits of meditation such as concentration. Knowledge of self is also benefits of meditation. Creates a state of deep relaxation and general feeling of wellbeing is benefits of meditation.

Benefits of meditation Tips

1. It decreases respiratory rate.

2. Reduces Pre- menstrual Syndrome.

3. It is also reduces activity of viruses and emotional distress.

4. It is increased learning ability, moral reasoning and memory.

5. Meditation is decreases muscle tension (any pain due to tension) and headaches.

6. Regular practitioners of MTH have increased sizes of chakras and auras making the energy body stronger and more dynamic.

Juliet Cohen writes articles for fitness tips and weight loss tips. She also writes articles on home remedies.