5 Simple Steps to Basic Meditation

Even as we live in this busy Western society, all of us have some kind of idea what meditation is. Most of us picture a meditation exercise to involve sitting in a calm and serene environment performing a breathing exercise. For some of us it seems impractical, how are we able to find a tranquil scene when we are surrounded by city noises? Let alone, where in my day would I be able to fit in ten minutes to sit and breathe? It’s a habit you have to build and be committed to. If it is important for you to find inner peace and serenity, we will find the time to do what it takes to get there.


5 Steps to Basic Meditation

1) Set aside ten to fifteen minutes. Even during busy season where I am working thirteen plus hours a day, I have found the time to workout at the gym three times a week and set aside thirty minutes at night to meditate. If it is important to you, you can too.

2) Find yourself a quiet dim area. This can even be your room, which is typically the case for me. I’ve meditated at the beach in the middle of the night before and it’s a relaxing scene. I find it helpful to turn on ambiance music during my meditation, but you can just as easily perform the exercise without music.

3) Find a comfortable place to sit down cross-legged with your back straight. If you are able to do so, I would sit half-lotus or even full lotus. But, do not force it if it doesn’t feel comfortable.

4) Choose a focus for your attention and close your eyes. For beginners it’s easiest to focus on your breath. When your attention wanders, gently bring it back to your focus. It will be difficult to focus at first, but do not be discouraged. We’ve spent our lives living a busy life indulging on every “fickle wanderlust”. Be patient and gradually you’ll be able to control your mind’s focus.

5) Take deep and slow breaths all the while focusing your attention on your breath. When you are ready gently open your eyes and feel refreshed.

I’ve meditated for about what seems like over a year now. I feel much more relaxed and in sync with my mind. Even during my most stressful times a work, I can feel the benefits of meditation calming me down. Meditation puts your life into perspective. Suddenly, you realize what is truly important in life. It’s a surreal experience and one you’ll have to experience for yourself to believe. In the words of Buddha, "There is pleasure and there is bliss. Forgot the first to possess the second." Meditation provides you with the latter.

For more tips on meditation, I have provided you with the below links.

Meditation for Beginners: 20 Practical Tips for Quieting the Mind
How to Meditate: A Beginners Guide