Meditation
Meditation is not a technique at all. Meditation is witnessing of the Self !!
Meditation is the journey of our consciousness towards the Self. To do Meditation, we have to transcend the body and mind. When we transcend the body and mind, we reach the Self. Then we receive abundant cosmic energy. By more Meditation our self-knowledge expands.
To achieve this state, the process of Meditation takes long preparations. With daily practice, you will master these steps.
Following are the Steps for Meditation
Choose a comfortable posture. Proceed to the next step only after you have learnt to make yourself comfortable in a comfortable posture.
Once you are seated comfortably, the next step is to calm your mind.
Once you are calm, sharpen your focus by not reacting to your uncontrolled thoughts.
Now that you have control over your thoughts, choose an object to give your mind something positive to concentrate on.
When you have chosen your object, focus upon it for some length of time. If your mind wanders, try to bring your attention back to the object and keep its image in the focus point. With practice, you will master this step.
Now that you are able to concentrate effortlessly and for a longer period of time, allow your mind to move freely. At this stage, you will automatically move into the state of Meditation. You will find yourself merging into the object and becoming a part of it. As a result, you will experience extreme bliss and peace. In this state you will transcend all man-made boundaries and feel a sense of timelessness.
Simple Methods for Preparation of Meditation
Contemplation on Mantra Chant: Self chanting of mantra.
Contemplating upon Breathing: Being aware of inhalation & exhalation in normal rhythm.
Contemplating upon Silence: Observing complete silence at mental level; by deed and speech.
Silence from within: Observe thoughts as witness.
Contemplation on Daily Routine Work: Observe task performed during the day from morning till night.
Contemplation on Flame of Light: Sitting in a steady position focusing upon candlelight at distance of about 3 - 4 feet.
All the above techniques prepare us to achieve the state of Meditation. It will take some time to understand. With more and more practice you will be able to understand.
Benefits of Meditation
Meditation leads to inner peace, self-fulfillment, self- improvement and the development of a positive outlook in life, frees the mind from stress, tension, worries and anxieties, makes the mind calm, clear and contented, negative emotions are transformed into positive ones, builds self-confidence.
Regularity is extremely important if you want to derive all the benefits of Meditation.
Remember the awake, aware mind is already there. All one needs to do is attune to it through devotion to Meditation. Nothing else is needed.
All meditators are advised to study with a qualified Yoga instructor to avoid misunderstanding of its principles.