Question #2 Meditation
Q: I have been reading about the benefits of meditation. Are there any guidelines that I should know about before I start? Cindy Schneider - Chicago
A: There is no "right" meditation technique for everybody. Some techniques work better for certain people while other techniques work better for other people. The important thing is to find what works for you.
Meditation involves concentrating on something to take our attention beyond the random thought activity that is usually going on in our heads. This can involve a solid object or picture, a mantra, breath, or guided visualization.
Typical objects employed include a candle flame or a flower. Some people use pictures, such as a Mandela - a highly colored symmetric painting - or a picture of a spiritual teacher in a high meditative state. Mantras are sounds which have a flowing, meditative quality and may be repeated out loud or inwardly. The breath is also a common focal point. Finally, guided visualization is also considered by some to be a form of meditation. A guided visualization can help to bring one into a meditative state; also, visualization may be used once a meditative state has been reached to produce various results.
Relaxation is also a common by-product of meditation. Relaxation itself can assume many forms, such as taking a hot bath or reclining in the Lazy-boy and watching TV, etc. Meditation is an active process where the mediator remains fully aware of what the awareness is doing. It also attempts to transcend the thought process whereas many forms of relaxation still engage the thought process.
Meditation allows the body to relax and can offset the effects of stress both mentally and physically to a potentially much greater degree than passive relaxation.
There are a few recommended guidelines for meditation:
It should be done every day, preferably at the same time
It should preferably be done before a meal rather than after a meal
A spot should be set aside for meditation, which should be a quiet place and used for nothing but meditation
One should sit with the spine straight and vertical (a chair is ok to use)
When first learning meditation it is usually not possible to meditate for more than 10-15 minutes. After regular practice for awhile, one becomes able to meditate for longer periods of time. Many people meditate twice-daily for 20-30 minutes each time, but the right duration and frequency is for each individual to decide.
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Sincerely,
Kathe Lynn Gaarde
If you interested in the Paranormal or have pressing questions about the after life of spirits you have come to the right place. Kathe, the original "Ghost Lady" will answer your questions regarding paranormal, lost spirt, and of course things that go bump in the night.
Kathe Lynn Gaarde ~ born a third generation clairvoyant from Milwaukee Wisconsin. Kathe is an accomplished freelance artist, art therapist, college professor, and mother of four. Kathe has residence in both Mequon Wisconsin, and Montreal Canada.
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