Simple Meditation

It is probably safe to say that all of us have heard of mediation. But most of us might think of the type of meditation like Japa. The type of meditation where you chant a word (like om or god) or a thought over and over as a means to get in touch with a deeper state of consciousness or a state in which you are more in touch with your inner self and the universe. But what if you could meditate on a regular basis through out the day and still get the benefits of inner peace and enlightenment?

I am not suggesting that you do not pursue the Japa or other meditations that one does to achieve this kind of spiritual awareness and inner peace. But I do know that there simple ways and techniques that you can practice through out the day that can help you feel healthier, happier and stress free on a regular basis.

In a busy life style you may feel you don’t have time to meditate, but like anything we do for the maintenance of our body, like showering, brushing our teeth, eat or drinking, we can make the time or even better take advantage of the moments that are available to us already. A few minutes a day can make a big difference. For instance like being stuck in traffic or while walking through a parking lot or while waiting for our car to be serviced, whatever the moment may be. I am not talking about getting into a cross legged position with your palms up and chanting om for five minutes. What I am talking about is taking the time to focus in on your inner self. Focusing on your breathing. The in and out process that happens all the while you are too busy to notice. Each breath that you take in is a gift and when you focus on it and become of aware of this gift and are thankful for it you automatically become a little calmer.
When you take it beyond that and observe all the beauty around you, the flowers, the balding man with a nice smile, the child’s innocent approach to live, the homeless woman that is thankful to just have a dollar to buy a coffee. What ever it may be that is around you, sights, sounds and smell. Once you take the time to appreciate the moment and your surroundings, you will find that you are happier and calmer emotions will occupy your waking state and with that, you will find more good things will come your way.
The only moment in life that truly matters is this one. As you remember the past remember to be thankful for all you have learn good and bad and know that the only moment you can do anything about is the one you are experiencing right now. Appreciate it, savor it and make the best of it.

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© Melt Magazine 2007