Tanya Ragbeer
So what’s all the hulabaloo about meditation anyway? Meditation is a whole body experience that engages both mind and body – all by silencing the mind in order to relieve mental and physical stress, from anxiety to aches and pains, to handling even greater concerns like disease or injury.
An ancient practice dating back to B.C. in India, meditation has gone mainstream in America, thanks to public awareness from celebrated athletes, artists and entertainers. Renowned athletes like Kobe Bryant, Joe Namath and Arthur Ashe, and TV icon Oprah Winfrey have all proclaimed the meditation as a tool for their success. Many now use meditation to create greater awareness and heightened performance. Yogis, martial arts sensei, higher consciousness gurus and life coaches all use meditation to help others transcend limitations and intolerance. Meditation is, in fact, the most holistic form of relaxation, free of any form of drug enhancement, natural or otherwise.
And how does it work? The key is not to force the mind to be quiet, but to allow the mind to flow in and out of conscious thought, training the mind in being still. Most who understand how to meditate report that they are more relaxed afterwards, and are better able to deal with difficult issues. Many report reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improved sleep patterns, and less illness.
To start, it is best to meditate for short periods of time, in places that are quiet and free from disturbance. Sit or lay in a position that is most comfortable and allows you to fully and completely relax. Focus on your breathing; breathe in the fresh, clean air, breathe out the stress, tension and toxins in the blood. As you inhale, open your lungs and allow your chest to expand; as you exhale, allow your body to relax and let the tension release from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. Close your eyes if you will, and allow your mind to drift. Ten minutes is all it takes. Listen to soothing music, or don’t; think of something specific – generally a single word works best, or think of nothing. The choice is yours. Let your mind wander, try to get to a place where there are no negative thoughts or emotions. Just be.
At the end of ten minutes, as you slowly open your eyes, embrace the beauty within and take in the magnificence of your being and your surroundings.
Do this once a day and within a week you will find yourself being less stressed, and more engaging.
Namaste.
