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"Following is a simple practice of meditation that
can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.
Sit comfortably in a place where you feel 'good.'
You can create such a place inside your home by
setting aside a spot and keeping it clean. It is
better, however, to meditate in nature, if you can.
A backyard is fine.
"Wear loose
clothing. Try to take a shower before you meditate. Begin with
ten minutes a day and work up to forty-five minutes. Early
morning or late at night are the best times to practice.
"Sit comfortably
on the ground or floor. Stretch to the right and left your
lower back, spine, and neck in a relaxed manner (...). Do not
force yourself to exceed the natural limits of your body.
Simply work gently to make your back, spine, and neck more
limber.
"Keep your back
straight and tuck in your chin. Relax your shoulders and
concentrate on your dantien. You can follow your breathing, if
you wish, or use some kind of visual image or mantra to
increase your concentration -- whatever works for you. Let the
thoughts and problems of the day slip from your mind naturally
-- don't hang on to them; they will be there when you finish!
In time, they will readily leave you of their own accord
during meditation. Whenever your mind wanders, bring it gently
back to your dantien. Remember, concentration is effort,
relaxation is action. Meditation is to surrender to the
Infinite inside ourselves.
"While meditating
don't worry about the act of meditating itself. Don't try to
establish beforehand how it will feel. Don't think about
images you will see or may see or books you have read about
the practice. There is a way to ensure this: don't talk about
your meditation with your friends. Keep it private. If you are
discussing with others your experiences in meditation, you are
in essence calling attention to yourself, and are therefore
cheating yourself. Don't do it. Keep it real. Keep it
personal." |
