Need a break from life's pressures? Learn the easy way to reach a state of relaxation almost anywhere at no cost by LaSheikah Purvis Hunter

 

Meditation is by taking a tranquil vacation whenever you want - for free. Those who do it save leaves them clear-headed, incredibly calm and more self-aware. “Meditation is about actively listening to yourself so that you get an emotional perspective on your life”, explains Nicholas Pepe and mediation expert in Los Angeles.

 

Considering how over-extended most of us feel, why aren't more of us getting are om on? For some, it's the fear of actually stepping away from busy, noisy surroundings and being silent. We say we have too much going on to stop and just be still. The busier Our Lives, the more we could benefit from a peaceful pause. Experts at the Mayo Clinic point out that meditation may help condition such as depression, anxiety disorders, allergies, high blood pressure, asthma, sleep problems and even cancer.

 

Here are the basics:

Seek quiet

Find a comfortable place, whether it's your bedroom, your office (make sure the door is closed) closed parenthesis, your car or under a tree. Shut off anything that might disturb you - the phone, computer or TV, for example. You don't have to sit on the floor across late and burn candles or incense if you don't want to. Just find a convenient place where you can be silent.

 

Be still

Whether you're using a CD or a downloaded meditation program or doing your own thing, sit or lie down with your eyes closed. If your thoughts wander, don't worry. Let your mind drift back to the present each time it strays.

 

Focus on your breath

Inhale through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. Hugs and trade intently on each breath you take. Notice how much more at ease you feel as you continue. Quotation marks when we're feeling stressed or anxious, our breathing becomes shallow and our body tenses,“ says Pepe. “Controlling your breath helps you control your emotions.”

 

Let go

Release any issues or problems nagging you by visualizing that with every breath you're expelling confusion and negativity and inhaling Clarity and positivity. Rather than dwelling on doubts and fears, only think about what you are feeling at this moment.

 

Give thanks

Toward the end of your meditation, you will be at your most peaceful State and you may even fall asleep, that's fine. Or you might prefer to use this time for prayer or to give thanks to yourself for embarking on this retreat.

CalmNSense.

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Resources

For more help as you said out on your own trail of tranquility, check out the following:

CD: guided meditation Revitalize mind, body and spirit by Kelly Howell parentheses ($10 amazon.com)

Book: 8 Minute meditation by Victor Davidge ($11, amazon.com)

App: relax and rest by meditation Oasis ($1 available for iPhone, Android)

Video: Several guided meditation videos are available on the YouTube channel for the Honest Guys.

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