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Meditation Secrets Of The Ages

Step one to having a positive and successful meditation experience is to establish your own personal comfort before you begin. Ideally, to truly experience the magic of meditation you want to feel as free as possible during each session.

This means you need to feel unencumbered by clothing, or any other physical limitation. Wear loose-fitting clothing -- something that feels comfortable and that you're totally at ease in. Get away from any distractions. Find a quiet spot where you can be alone for at least 15 minutes.

Your level of personal comfort is crucial, yet it's easily overlooked. If you sit down and try to meditate with your office clothes on, for example, you'll likely find that it's much more difficult than if you simply took the time to switch into some sweats and a tee shirt before settling into your session.

Positioning is another important consideration. I find it's easiest to locate a chair with good back support - one that you can sit up straight in and be comfortable. Keeping your feet on the floor and your back straight so the energy can flow in a natural and easy way helps you experience the magic of meditation.

Chances are you've got a lot on your mind. So take a few moments at the beginning of your meditation to unwind. As you take your seat, let go of the day's activities and stresses. Sure, it's not as easy as flipping a switch, but it does get easier with practice. For now, think of something that's peaceful for you -- a quiet day near the lake... a walk on the beach... hiking along a new trail... or just enjoying a beautiful sunset.

Whatever works for you, just begin to picture it in your mind as you take your seat. If you start your meditation this way every time, your chair will become an anchor. Do it often enough and when you sit down at the beginning of each meditation, you'll instantly trigger this relaxing image and your body will begin to release the tension as you relax.

After a few brief moments of visualizing a serene and peaceful image, start to observe your breath. Simply follow the air as you breathe it in and imagine the oxygen filling your lungs and fueling every cell of your body. And as you exhale, just let go of any float that flows into your consciousness. Simply follow your breath. This is an excellent way to free your mind and to relax more and more. Take in long slow, deep breaths, but always breathe in a comfortable way. Don't force anything. Just allow the magic of meditation to permeate your mind and body.

As thoughts enter your mind as they undoubtedly will, allow them to float right on by. Release all thoughts and simply go back to focusing on your breathing. Deepen your breathing. One popular technique is the Eight Count. This is where you breathe in for the count of eight, hold your breath for a count of eight, and then exhale for the same duration. I prefer a slight variation on this technique. I double the "hold time". In other words, breathe in for the count of eight... holds for a count of sixteen... and then exhale for a count of eight. You may need to work up to this. Again, don't force it.

Deep breathing in this manner oxygenates your cells, while slowing brain wave activity. This results in you becoming even more relaxed. What makes this technique magical is the profound peace you feel during those tranquil moments when you're holding your breath. It brings a level of mental clarity that must be experienced to be appreciated.

Simply continue to relax. Even utter the words R-E-L-A-X slowly to yourself as you continue to focus on taking easy, deep breaths -- in and out - and feeling more and more relaxed each time. When you're ready to emerge from your magical meditation, simply wiggle your toes and slowly open your eyes. If you follow these simple techniques you'll find that your meditations are more effective at rejuvenating and re-energizing your body and your spirit.