Meditation is often associated with yoga, but actually practice this discipline can and independently. Not all yoga practice meditation, as well as not all meditators do yoga. So if you are afraid of the presence of exercise in practice - relax, meditation is precisely distinguished by the fact that doing nothing is not necessary. And, as a rule, it is not such a simple exercise, as at first glance. The main purpose of meditation - is to stop the flow of thoughts that constantly distract us from the fact, of knowing who we really are. Mind in this case is represented as always included a TV that has riveted our attention, not allowing to see and hear our true inner nature.
The study of meditation is customary to begin with a focus on images, objects, sound or your own body. Meditation is of several types - classic sitting, walking and even recumbent. Generally meditation can be a whole life, but to get to that level, you need more than one year to devote practice. Eyes during meditation can be closed or open, at your convenience. You can meditate in silence the sounds of nature or singing mantras - special sounds to help you tune in to certain vibrations. The choice of conditions depends on tradition and personal preferences meditator.
The best time for meditation - early in the morning (before sunrise) and evening (before bedtime). It begins with 20-30 minutes, after which time gradually increases. Experienced meditators may hold a seat weeks or even months, without being completely normal human desires due to physiology. Study must be clean, well ventilated and heated. Sounds and other extraneous factors should not violate your peace and otvekat from practice. Before meditation you should not drink plenty of fluids and eat junk food - it can cause drowsiness or, conversely, restlessness. Postures for meditation are highly individual character. The ideal is considered full lotus position with legs crossed and your back straight. If this position is not available to you, you can use a special pillow or a bench that can be purchased at specialty stores or make yourself. If you have any problems with the spine or the lower part of the body may be sitting on a chair with straight legs. Also allowed to use the wall as a support in the early days of practice. Sitting down to meditate, get rid of the idea that you need to do anything. Practice exists precisely in order to overcome this habitual pattern of behavior, relax and just enjoy being. Initially, you will likely seem that impossible. But the more you practice, the easier you will find an island of tranquility and harmony within yourself.
Meditate you can own, but if you want to achieve real skill in this art, it is desirable to find a master or teacher to help avoid common mistakes and give the necessary instructions. For these purposes around the world, there are so-called retreats - the time you devote to the study of his inner world in a specially created for this condition. Retreats tradition has its roots in Asian countries - India and Thailand are places where meditation is considered almost mandatory training for every Buddhist or Hindu. Although meditation and has religious overtones, you absolutely do not need to change their faith in order to be successful in practice. The main thing - the true desire for peace and quiet inside.