Beginner’s Tips
Meditation isn’t an activity that requires much aside from a wiling and open mind. Meditation can be practiced anywhere that one can sit in quiet thought without disruption from the world. It is an inner practice; it is the process of connecting with your inner being and the Divine in each of us. That being said, you’re undoubtedly sitting in a very tangible location in the physical world and a specific time. Below is a collection of tips to help reduce the distractions of the physical world, establish productive routines, and cultivate your spiritual world, both internally and externally.
Create a physical space for meditation.
You don’t need a temple to find the Divine. You don’t truly need any THING. However, finding a quiet space is critical for successful meditation, especially when starting. Your environment matters; it can help or hinder your efforts. It is often helpful to cultivate a space that inspires spiritual connection. This are, so long as it is quiet, can be as sparse or elaborate as you choose. Most, at a minimum, procure a small cushion to sit on. Some choose to create altars in front of which to meditate, including objects that inspire spirituality or pictures of individuals whom inspire spiritual greatness. Some choose to include aromatherapy as part of their meditations, opting for essentials oils and/or burning incense. The point is that this is your space to connect with the Infinite. This is a sacred space and it should inspire your sense of spirituality.
Establish a strong habit.
If you live in the Western world like I do, you are likely conditioned to a chronic mental and emotional state embodying stress. When I first found meditation it was something I relied on only in times of high stress or anxiety. My devotion to practicing the art of meditation would ebb and flow with my level of stress. I found that I was never really able to progress beyond mere relaxation; I was never able to find the level of connection with the Divine that I craved or the peace that peace that I yearned. I couldn’t progress because I wasn’t practicing, I hadn’t made meditation part of my life, part of my routine.
You can choose any time that works for you. Find a time when life is less demanding or has not yet had a chance to exhaust your energies. Some choose to begin their day with meditation whereas others choose to meditate in the evening as a way to shred the stresses of the day. It is less important that you choose any specific time in the day so long as your are constant and dedicated. Make meditation part of your daily routine, make it a habit. Your habitual practice will allow you to fine-tune your use of the various meditative techniques and help you achieve deeper meditative states over time.
Master the fundamentals.
You can’t short-cut the process. Rushing through any aspect of the process will inevitably limit the results you achieve. In particular, it is important to practice the various breathing techniques used in meditation. These techniques allow us to relax and free up physical and mental energy to be channeled into the deeper meditative states. The form is critical to the function of meditation. Make sure to practice the techniques you use and pay special attention to posture and the way your breathe. The details matter. Master the fundamental techniques so you can build on that success for more advanced techniques.
Experiment with techniques.
We’re all delightfully unique. The techniques that our bodies, minds, and spirits respond to will vary. Be mindful about the techniques you’re choosing as you meditate and try different combinations if you aren’t finding the results that you’re seeking. It takes time, practice, and persistence to grow your meditative skillset. Don’t be discouraged if you struggle at first; choose other techniques till you find what works for you. Meditation is an inner discipline; finding what works for you is all that really matters.