-- By Lynn Gregorski I've been practicing meditation for over ten years. When I mention it to someone who has never tried it, usually the reaction is, "I could never sit still that long." It seems many of my friends don't think they can do it, but more importantly they don't understand exactly it is. Yes, there are devout monks who can meditate for days, weeks and go without eating, but that's not what meditation is to me. Meditation is my personal experience and observation of the process of slowing my mind and body. My meditation is observing what goes on in those moments that I try to be still. Even if my mind is wandering I consider that part of the exercise. I try to observe what my brain and mind is trying to do and work on bringing it back to the present moment and a place of stillness. Itchy legs, arms, the fidgety feeling that I sometimes struggle with, I know is only normal. After all, I've been going full speed all day long, so isn't it only natural that it's going to take a little bit of work to slow down? Once I'm over what I call “the period of adjustment”, at the start of my meditation, I can really begin to go deep. A few things that help me relax are breathing and releasing all the muscles in my neck, shoulder and face, without slouching. Counting my breaths or simply focusing on the inhalation and exhalation of each breath is a great way to stay in the present. I use each inhalation and exhalation as an observation of the beauty of the breath. It amazes me how wonderful nice deep breaths are. They are one of the most healing and cleansing things I can do for myself. Even if my minds wanders during this type of meditation, I think of all the benefits I'm giving my body by simply letting the air fill all of my lungs and diaphragm and then completely leaving my body. Ask yourself if you could take these kinds of healing, cleansing breaths at some point in every day. Another meditation practice I enjoy is group meditations. There are many forms of group meditation but the sessions I attend are guided by one person. During these sessions we focus on aligning our chakras and accepting light and healing. A guided meditation is a great way to focus on yourself while you benefit from the healing energy of the group. Members of my group say it's much easier for them to listen to someone else and follow along, than to practice meditation on their own. If you don’t have a meditation group nearby, you can always pick up a guided meditation on CD.

“My meditation is observing what goes on in those moments that I try to be still.” About the Author Lynn Gregorski has been studying yoga and meditation for over ten years. She has traveled the world on her own spiritual journey and in 2001 launched RapunzelGifts.com. You may also like... Himalayan Crystal Salt Lamp Nature's ionizer-- purifies the air you breathe beautifully. Fresh Rejuvenating Gift Set Lift your spirits with fresh scents designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Gemstone Chakra Necklace with Sterling OM Contact Us Policies Articles About Our Gifts Custom Gift Baskets About Our Jewelry Custom Jewelry Customer Feedback

When it comes to meditating, I believe there are no hard, fast rules. What’s really important is that you feel you are getting something out of it, even if it’s simply relaxing for a few moments or making quiet observations about yourself. Make it your own personal practice and let it develop into what works best for you.

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