Meditation musings

10 Tips to get started with Meditation

"Meditation is the art of doing nothing." ~ Sri Sri

So how do we do nothing?  Here are a few simple steps to follow as a beginner to meditation.  As you become regular with your practice, you are sure to go deeper and deeper.

1.  Choose a convenient time - Meditation is essentially a relaxation time; so it should be done entirely at your convenience.  Choose a time when you know you are not likely to be disturbed and are free to relax and enjoy.

2.  Choose a quiet place -  Just like a convenient hour, choose a place where you not likely to be disturbed.  Quiet and peaceful surroundings can make the meditation experience more enjoyable and relaxing.

3.  Sit comfortably - Your posture makes a difference too.  Make sure you are relaxed, comfortable and steady.  Sit straight with your spine erect; keep your shoulders, neck relaxed and eyes closed.  

4.  Keep a relatively empty stomach -  A good time to meditate is before having a meal.  After having a full meal, You may doze off while meditating.  At the same time, do not starve yourself either; a good time to meditate is about 2 hours after having a meal.

5.  Start with a few warm-ups -  A few minutes of warm up exercise before sitting for meditation can help improve circulation, remove inertia and restlessness and makes the body feel lighter.  

6.  Take a few deep breaths -  A few rounds of deep breaths or Alternate nostril breathing before meditation is always a good idea as a preparation for meditation.  This helps to steady the rhythm of breath and leads the mind into a more peaceful meditative state.

7.  Turn on a guided meditation -  As a beginner to practice, it's a good idea to start off with a guided meditation.  You only need to close your eyes, relax and follow simple instructions as you hear them and enjoy the experience.  

8.  Keep a gentle smile on your face - You will notice a huge difference.  A gentle smile throughout keeps you relaxed, peaceful and enhances your meditation experience.

9.  Open your eyes slowly and gently - Don't be in a rush to open your eyes towards the end of meditation; open your eyes slowly and gradually and take your time to become aware of yourself and surroundings.

10.  Experience the freshness and enjoy your day – Meditation is like an instant energy booster. A few minutes off your daily schedule to charge you up for the rest of the day. Take that time out and experience the wonders of meditation for yourself.

Article: Meditation makes us more compassionate

We will share news articles and studies related to Meditation once a week.

It's always great to read new studies and news about something positive.  The topic of Meditation and compassion was in the news recently.

Study: Meditation may make us more compassionate