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Learning the principles of meditation is much like learning to listen to the sounds of silence. By silencing the thoughts of the conscious mind, the sub-conscious mind may be accessed. This is the purpose of meditating, and a useful tool for those lacking in inner peace. Proponents of meditation cite many benefits for the practice, not the least of which is better health.

Meditation is a mental process that requires total relaxation, and eliminating distractions. Physical comfort is also a major consideration for success. The following procedure will contribute to success in meditating for those interested in the process.

Preparation

The area for meditation should be quiet, or might have soothing music barely audible to provide the atmosphere for relaxation. Telephones should be disabled, and privacy from interruption should be anticipated. Most who meditate do so in a prone position, however some seat themselves comfortably and begin to breathe deeply.

First Steps

Deep breathing helps us slow down our state of activity, particularly as the rate of deep breathing is slowed. It may be helpful to "feel" tension leaving the body in a perceptual manner. The thoughts of the conscious mind must be released as well. Let the mind cast aside each thought as it comes, as if trying to erase the blackboard of the mind.

Visualization

Mental imagery can be helpful towards clearing the mind of extraneous thought. By imagining a placid scene, such as a pristine lake with beautiful scenery, unwanted thoughts can be repressed. As relaxation is achieved, the idea of taking a nap may become an attractive thought. That point of almost falling asleep is your step into the meditative state.

Entering the Meditation

Within this almost asleep state of being, communicate with what is around your imagined lake (or whatever has been visualized). Feel the movement of the breeze as it moves the leaves of the trees that border the lake. Sense the ripples of the water as it responds to the refreshing movement of everything around it. Listen to the virtual sounds of silence. You might just hear a voice, or sense an incoming message. If so, listen attentively without worry as to its source.

Ending the Meditation

After meditating for a while, minutes for some, longer for others, you might fall asleep. If you do, you will likely awaken a short while later feeling refreshed, and renewed. Even those who do not sleep feel much the same refreshment. This feeling of well-being is accompanied by a reduction in blood pressure for most, and a healthier immune system benefiting from stress relief.

Conclusion

Meditation has only upside, and no downside whatever. Practicing ancient, and respected methods of relaxation only make sense in a world that permits less time than ever for individual pursuits of self-improvement. The only way to truly know yourself is by learning to listen to your own inner voice. That voice waits to speak, and most effectively when you turn off the noise from the conscious mind that often blocks it out.

Learn more about this author, Bob Schmidt.
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