by Kristin Duncan

Created on: August 21, 2007

Meditation has been used for centuries by thousands of people. Some experts believe that meditation was present in even the hunter-gatherer tribes from thousands of years ago. Native American, Buddhism, Hinduism, Egyptian, and other well known (and not so known cultures) have used meditation as a relaxation technique for years. Meditation is a powerful way to create a connection between the mind and body to find health and wellness.

One thing that is misperceived about meditation is that there is a specific way and form to meditation, much like the Tibetan monks sitting in regal pose, eyes closed, and chanting or humming. Though this is one way to meditate, this isn't the only way. Even if you find a quiet place, sit down, and breathe you are still meditating. There are different ways to meditate. Visualization, chanting, breathing, prayer, song, self-hypnosis, and rituals are all forms of meditation. The key thing to remember is to find what makes you comfortable.

When starting you own meditation practice, find a quiet, comfortable place where you can be alone. This can be your living room, under a tree in your backyard, or even at a local park (weather permitting, of course!). You can start by closing your eyes and concentrating only on your breathing. It also helps to clear your mind of everything except your breathing. Some find it comfortable to hum or chant when in meditation. Another way to meditate is to visualize yourself in a beautiful location, like a beach, a waterfall, a field of wildflowers, or a lake. Relaxation is the key here. Sometimes it helps to meditate for just a few minutes one day, a few more the next, until you have gradually built up to 30 minutes or even an hour.

One way I meditate is to lay under a tree in my backyard on a warm, breezy day and stare up at the leaves dancing in the wind. To me, there is nothing more relaxing. Of course, everyone is different and what is relaxing to me, is most likely irritating to someone else. Meditation is a wonderful way to melt away stress, and when you stand up and continue with your day, it is almost like you are a new person.

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