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Learning To Meditate

Learning to Meditate
By Shelley Sidle

There are many forms and types of meditation that can be practiced. Also, just about every major religion (and smaller religions) practices some form of meditation whether it is Hinduism, Buddhism, Catholicism or any of the many other religions. Meditation can be a religious practice, or it can be simply about being still, relaxing, and focusing on your breath and your body. It is probably easiest to learn a simple form of meditation that is completely separate from any religion or religious practice, and then to learn other types of meditation or any techniques that are specific to a particular goal or religion.

In its most basic form, meditation involves sitting in a comfortable and tranquil environment and keeping the mind clear of busy-thoughts, while focusing on the breath. When you are learning to meditate you will most likely find it hard to sit in meditation for extended periods of time. For this reason, begin with 10 to 15 minutes, and keep in mind that you will lose your train of thought often. Don’t get frustrated with yourself or the process, because experiencing this new practice can be more challenging- and more rewarding- than you expected.

Find a time and place that you can sit comfortably for about 10 to 20 minutes without being disturbed or distracted by outside activities. Close your eyes and begin to focus on your breath and the feeling of your lungs expanding as you inhale, and contracting as you exhale. As you are sitting and focusing on your breath, your mind will begin to wander, so as soon as you realize that you’re thinking of something else, re-focus your mind back to the inhale and exhale and feeling relaxed. Do this a few times a week, increasing the time by a couple of minutes every couple of days, until you can sit in meditation for 20 to 30 minutes.

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