Learning to Meditate is much easier than most people would suppose due to the myths that have sprung up around this long practised method of relaxation. Many imagine that it is difficult and can only be undertaken after years of intensive training and long hours of discomfort.
Your first steps upon the path to learning meditation do not require any such action. To begin, you simply need to allocate yourself a period of time when you can be alone and undisturbed. This means actually switching off your cell phone, unplugging your laptop, switching off the radio or television and being committed to spending some quality time with yourself.
The key to meditation is relaxation, so remove any tight clothing and ensure that you are comfortably dressed. Do not try to meditate in an area that is too warm or too cold for you to be at your ease. Light several candles or use fragrant oils to perfume the air. Also ensure that you have eaten and have had something to drink before you begin.
Your next step is to ensure that you are comfortable. You can either sit comfortably in a chair or lay down ensuring that your head and neck are fully supported. Choose whatever position you are most at ease in so that you can focus on other things easily without distractions.
The idea is to be able to turn your focus elsewhere and you cannot do that if your are physically uncomfortable. Once you are comfortable, close your eyes and simply relax and focus on your breathing. Begin by taking slow, deep measured breaths and trying to make your breathing circular.
As you slow your breathing, deepening the action, clear your mind of any immediate worries or concerns. If any thoughts come up, acknowledge them and let them go. Focus again on your breathing and then see if you can recognize any tension or pain anywhere in your body. If you do, see the breathe as releasing it on the exhalation, drawing in healing breath on the inhalation.
The goal here is to simply quiet your mind, which can be a difficult task at first. If thoughts pop into your head, simply focus on clearing them away and focus again on your breathing. At first you may only be able to do this for a few seconds, or a minute or so, but persevere. The mind is like a wayward child and will rebel against being disciplined, but look, you are meditating already!
Find more help with learning how to meditate and claim your free easy meditation guide.