To and Fro
Life, it seems, is busier than it used to be. It seems a lot of us long for peace of mind, clarity, focus, and rest. Yet we rush around as though if we get everything checked off the to-do list, then we will be able to relax. If you sense that that's not all there is to it, try meditation.
What You Need
Yourself: Everything else is optional.
A Zafu, cushion, chair, or other seat: something that allows you to sit with good posture.
Atmosphere:
Candles, music, incense, white noise, fountains, et cetera can all help you let go of your
daily worries and repetitious thoughts. Use these if you
like, as you see fit.
How to Start
If possible, find a place where
you can sit for a while without interruption. Seat yourself
in whatever manner is comfortable for you. You might sit
cross-legged on the floor or a zafu, or you might sit in a
straight-backed chair.
Take a deep breath in, and let it out,
letting go of any worries and stress. Let your mind be
clear. Now, it takes a lot of practice (and some serendipity)
to achieve actual clarity of mind...so when thoughts enter your mind,
just observe them and let go of them.
You might find it helps to focus on your breath, or to mentally repeat
a word or phrase. This can be something as simple as "peace,"
or a traditional mantra. You can choose to observe a candle
flame or flower. Or you might try being open to and observant
of all the sounds, smells, and sights around you - without focusing on
any one stimuli (i.e. practicing "beginner's mind").
Practice for a few minutes at first, and then longer as you can sit with greater ease.
Really, this is just one way to meditate, and meditation is not
something you do in a "correct" or "incorrect" way. For more
meditation techniques, check out the resources at left.
Meanwhile, this is a good, simple, accessible one to start
with. And remember, the purpose of meditation is not to
achieve some lofty goal (although it does have many beneficial
side-effects) but simply to practice meditation itself.