Meditation? Who here does it?

[Relic]

I would like to get into meditation as a stress-relieving type thing. I have a fairly busy, hectic lifestyle and believe that it would be a benefit for me to get into something like this. Maybe 20-30 mins/daily.
The only problem is that I have no idea how to do it...?? If I try to sit still for any longer than 5 mins, my mind starts wrapping around all the problems that I have to solve, things that need to be done ad I cant sit still..etc I just cant let go.
So, how is it done? Any advice would be great!

[L-A]

From my taï-chi background, what I can tell you is that you have to stay focused on your breathing. That's how I can manage to keep my mind "empty".

But I'm also curious about the real thing. Subscrizzled.

[machine gewehr]

Drink beer till only your cerebellum remains active.There you go.I know this stuff man.



I've been thinking on it for a while and my mother gave me a tip on that.
You sit down,hands on your kneecaps.Palms looking up,both your thumbs on your pinkies.you start from pinky and touch each finger then reverse,focus on your fingers.It really helps but I still prefer beer till my liver's down.

[Mark Latimour]

Most things I have read on the subject suggest that you should focus on a single word or thought (but not a problem or concept). That is why the stereotypical "om" meditation is actually very real. You clear your mind of all but that single thing.

[armywalaby]

Since it's TB, we can replace "om" with "bacon".

[machine gewehr]

Originally Posted by armywalaby

Since it's TB, we can replace "om" with "carrot".

Fixed it noob.

[Jeff Martinez]

It's all about focussing on one, SIMPLE, object or thought. Your breathing is probably the best focal point to start with. If you can only do it for 5 minutes, try for 6 the next day, the the day after that, etc....

[MilkyMcMilkMilk]

yeah focusing on the breath is the most basic form of meditation.
if your mind wanders don't worry or get frustrated just go back to the breath.
it's gonna be damn near impossible to sit there 10 or 15 minutes and not have your mind wander. just slowing your body and mind down 15 minutes a day will do wonders for your physical and mental health.

[Gubna]

I do. I've been doing it since about 2003 and it's helped me tremendously.

here's something you could try: http://azuritepress.com/techniques/Maharic.htm

it's a basic protection technique. I would suggest doing this prior to any other meditations that you might come across.

but just this as a start is very good. one thing you could do is to read it on to a recorder, so you can listen to yourself take you through the technique.

and yes, focus on your breathing.

[MatticusMania]

Good tips above. The way I learned was to focus on your breathing as well. Visualize the inhale, then the exhale, and then vocalize with a mantra, such as Om (thats what I use). I generally try and get some meditation in a few times a week. Lately Ive also been able to meditate whilst going for a run, very much the same actions, only while running.

As a side note, I bought an army jacket at a vintage clothes store, they had a giant bin of patches for $1, and I was this close to buying the Maynard patch, until I saw the one that said Om.

[Relic]

Hmmm...I'm going to have to give it a shot with the visualization and breathing etc. Gubna - that link was pretty wild. Cool stuff.

[ryco]

I do a homemade version where I mix it with prayer and run through my shakras.
Gets kind of intense and goofy sometimes, but I enjoy it.
Helps me relax, because I'm not able to sleep a lot.

If a thought comes, just observe it and let it pass. No big.

Not really religious - just take ideas I like out of all of them. peace!

[Gubna]

also, find your self some Larajji - he's this guy who does some mellow music on an electric zither. good for meditation.

[Nyarlathotep]

I wish I did.....

[MakiSupaStar]

I surf.

[Oric]

I meditate, as part of the Baha'i Faith. It's one of the things we're asked to do, meditation on various parts of the writings. There's not really a specific method or anything- it can vary a lot across cultures. Whatever is most comfortable.

[vene-nemesis]

Originally Posted by MakiSupaStar

I surf.

I poop daily...

[Nyarlathotep]

Originally Posted by MakiSupaStar

I surf.

I guess music could be called my "meditation".....

Actually, I sorta meant to type "I wish I could" above, since the last time I attempted to do so (in a form other than playing bass) it got a little weird....

[machine gewehr]

Originally Posted by MakiSupaStar

I drink beer.

Fixed it,you liar.

[Armueller2001]

Meditation?

Oh, maybe 2-3 times per day. There's a couple websites I frequent. I don't usually use lotion, but sometimes I do.