"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.
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.