How do you begin to meditate?

So is it possible? You've heard that meditation can benefit your mind and wellbeing. Where do you begin? Figuring out the type of meditation that works for you will take some time. There are many different ways to meditate. There is Transcendental Meditation, Qi Gong, Mindfulness and Mantra meditation just to name a few. I want to share with you how I use mantras to meditate.

To begin, let's choose a mantra (a word or statement that we will repeat). When choosing one, it's best to use a word that doesn't trigger additional thoughts. A common mantra is So Hum, meaning I am. Next, find a quiet and comfortable place to sit. You can sit on a chair or on the floor with your back against a wall. The goal is to keep your head and spine straight and to be comfortable. Close your eyes, relax and begin to breathe in and out through your nose. Begin repeating your mantra gently and quietly. You can repeat it out loud or quietly in your head. Do not try to "empty" your mind. This is what frustrates most people. The goal is not to rid your mind of thoughts. Whenever you get distracted by a thought, simply return back to repeating your mantra. Listen to your voice and concentrate on the mantra itself. After approximately 10 minutes, stop the mantra and sit quietly for a few more minutes before opening your eyes. Try to meditate first thing in the morning and then in the evening. If you can only meditate for 2-3 minutes at a time, then do it! Even a few minutes a day can be beneficial. The more you practice, the easier it will become and the longer you will be able to meditate. Studies have shown that meditation reduces stress, improves concentration, encourages a healthy lifestyle, increases your immune health as well as longevity. It's worth trying!