Meditation

lilly · Site Admin

Meditation posted on originally on 04 May 2006 http://thewomenwarriors.net/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?t=332

While prayer is described as a ?talking mode?, meditation is a ?listening mode?: the mind is calm and peaceful.
The main purpose of meditation is to link to Higher self, contact the Soul and the spiritual Source.
In a meditative state the mind relaxes, moving away from the physical to the subtle levels, eventually connecting with the soul.
Meditation is one of the best healing techniques.

Meditation technique- following the breath - very good for beginners

Sit comfortably: crossed legged, lotus position or half lotus position. However, sitting straight but comfortable in a chair, with your feet flat on the floor, is just as good. It is important to be comfortable.

Choose a quiet time and place.
Close your eyes and breath naturally and slowly.
The back is straight, head held erect, chest high, abdomen in, hands are resting on the thighs.
Let your body sway gently few times from side to side to reach the point of balance.
Let go any anxiety, worry, distrust.
Relax your body, specially the neck and shoulders.
Follow your normal breathing, note how you breathe.
If your mind wanders, bring your attention back to your breathing.
Do this for five minutes at the beginning and extend it to 20 minutes over the weeks.

Don?t have any expectations or force your thoughts otherwise your mind will strain
Meditate on an empty stomach.

How to deal with distractions
During meditation your body might itch, develop pain or you?ll be aware of any noise or sound, thoughts will come to your mind, etc. These are just distractions of the mind. Be aware of them, acknowledge these thoughts or feelings and then let them go.

Meditation?s benefits:

relieves pain, skin rashes, ulcers, headaches

reduces stress, anger, anxiety, depression

increases blood flow and slows the heart rate

reduces blood pressure

decreases respiratory rate

increases exercise tolerance in heart patients

reduces Pre- menstrual Syndrome

reduces activity of viruses

leads to a deeper level of relaxation

decreases muscle tension

enhances the immune system

increases self-confidence

younger biological age

increases vitality

increases seratonin production which influences mood and behavior

helpful to asthma patients due to easier breathing

increases psychic abilities

releases stored negative and unwanted energies

releases blockages in the charkas or any emotional materials in the body
renews the energy flow

Lilly