"Meditation is a simple tool you can use to quiet your mind, heal & see the best course of action for any situation" Kita Forever
Mediation is a naturally occurring rest state; it is resting in yourself while you remain awake and alert. During meditation you reach a deeper state of rest than during sleep. It is a state where you are actually falling awake. The one definition that fits almost all types of meditation is:
"Consciously directing your attention to alter your state of consciousness"
There are many types of meditation and no limit to the things you can direct your attention toward: symbols, sounds, colors, breath, uplifting thoughts, etc. Meditation is simply about attention where you direct it, and how it alters your consciousness.
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What Is The Purpose Of Meditation?
Traditionally meditation was (and still is) used for spiritual growth. More recently, meditation has become a valuable tool for finding a peaceful oasis of relaxation and stress relief in our demanding, fast paced world. It has been used for healing, energizing, emotional cleansing and balancing, increasing concentration, integrating and assimilating learning, manifesting change, developing intuition, unlocking creativity and finding inner guidance. It basically promotes a heightened awareness everyday life.
Why Meditate?
Science shows that meditation helps you deal more effectively with stress, worry, guilt, fear, depression, addictions and many other states of mind and emotions that steal your energy. A regular practice of meditation strengthens your immune system, increases your energy and self-esteem, regulates your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improves your sleep and digestion and gives you a greater sense of meaning and purpose to you life.
Meditation is excellent at removing the obscuring screens of your own personal concerns and letting you see things as they really are ~ Infinite!
Helpful Guidlines For The Beginner
Below is a list of twelve simple guidlines you can use whenever you meditate to make it a rewarding fulfilling experience.
The greatest guideline that has been shared for thousands of years regarding meditation is to put your expectations aside
Do not worry about "Doing It Right"
There are infinite possibilities and no fixed way to meditate
Choose a quiet environment to eliminate distractions
Eliminate as much noise and as many distractions as possible
Be in a comfortable posture that allows for complete relaxation
Sitting is the traditional ideal position to meditate however, if you cannot comfortably sit, lay flat on your back
Always keep your spine straight during meditation. This allows your spiritual energy to flow freely up your spine
Spend a few minutes just relaxing and letting go before any meditation
If you find it difficult to keep your attention use a "Mantra" like "Sat (True)" when inhaling and "Nam (Identity)" when exhaling.
Follow your heart, you know best what is right for you
Maintain a sense of humor ~ laughter can be the best dose of natural medicine for many situations in life