Meditation: Meditation for Beginners - How to Relieve Stress, Anxiety and Depression and Return to a State of Inner Peace and Happiness (How to Meditate, ... for Beginners, Mindfulness Book 1) by Chavan Yesenia

Author:Chavan, Yesenia [Chavan, Yesenia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Grizli777
Published: 2014-11-21T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 6 - How to Prepare for Meditation

Sometimes, simply by sitting, the soul collects wisdom

- Zen Proverb

Preparing for meditation is Stage Zero of the meditation process. With any kind of meditation it is important to do some preparation in order for things to go well.

Stage Zero is often seen as an optional extra and either skipped or not done thoroughly. This is sad because it hinders the effectiveness of ones meditation even before it begins.

If you want to get a certain result, you need to set up the right conditions to get that result. According to Buddhists, there is a principle called “conditionality” which states that if your goal is to achieve “x,” you need to set up the conditions that will enable you to achieve “x.”

Buddhists put a heavy emphasis on the importance of preparation. They believe that it’s impossible to skip this step and expect to get the results that you desire .

Preparing for meditation involves both the external and internal. Externally you want to prepare a place that will be conducive to a deep, meditative experience. Internally, you want to address your posture, deepen your awareness of your body, and relax as deeply as you can. This preparation is essential for a calmer, less stressed and more peaceful mind.

Following are some suggestions on how you can prepare your external and internal environment in a way that will help you get the most out of your meditation.

Mirror your internal intention by an external act

Mentally you are emptying your mind of all irrelevant, powerless human thoughts in order to reload it with thoughts that are in line with your spiritual higher self.

Physically, you can show your intent to purify your thoughts by taking a shower (to wash away your worries), brushing your teeth, or washing your hands and face. The act of washing yourself is a very symbolic cleansing ritual that will make you feel renewed, refreshed, and clean. It can also have an extremely positive effect on your mood and overall mindset as you prepare to meditate.

Create a relaxing atmosphere

If you want your body and mind to relax then create an atmosphere that is conducive to relaxation.

Light a candle, burn some incense, dim the lights, place some fresh flowers on the table, or play some meditation music. Creating a sanctuary in which to meditate will go a long way in helping you clear your mind and experience a deep, enjoyable and enriching meditation.

Provoke a meditative state

Take 5-20 minutes to read spiritual writings. These can vary between biblical God-centered writings, spiritual healing material, or even some positive encouraging words that feed your soul and get you in touch with Spirit. As you read, absorb and reflect on the meaning of every sentence. Take notes in a special journal that you exclusively reserve for spiritual reflection .

Breathe deep

When you feel that your spiritual reading has led you to a state of awareness and peace, take between 5-10 slow deep breaths. As you breathe inward, open yourself to the peaceful loving nature of God (or Universe).

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