Yogic concentration and meditation
All the bending and breathing that we associate with yoga is really just prep work for meditation. It all starts by relaxing, reigning in the senses and finding a peaceful focus within - that's dharana,, concentration, or mindfulness. While its not easy to be mindful when you're being tugged in 10 directions at once, it's not impossible either. And the more you practice, the more enjoyable it gets.
Meditation, or dhyāna, is simply an extended session of mindfulness -- a moment-by-moment awareness of your thoughts and sensations, just as they are. It's the practice of sitting quietly and balancing your attention and energy, without judgment. Eventually, it becomes a path to find clarity and peace whenever you feel stressed, obsessed, fearful or out of control.
It may be difficult at first, so it's important to start small. With a little work, you'll find spaciousness and beauty --the basic goodness of yourself that exists beneath the tumult of those needs, wants, distractions and botherations . There is no better time to begin than right now, so get comfortable and try the short, guided meditations below.
Meditation, or dhyāna, is simply an extended session of mindfulness -- a moment-by-moment awareness of your thoughts and sensations, just as they are. It's the practice of sitting quietly and balancing your attention and energy, without judgment. Eventually, it becomes a path to find clarity and peace whenever you feel stressed, obsessed, fearful or out of control.
It may be difficult at first, so it's important to start small. With a little work, you'll find spaciousness and beauty --the basic goodness of yourself that exists beneath the tumult of those needs, wants, distractions and botherations . There is no better time to begin than right now, so get comfortable and try the short, guided meditations below.
Guided meditation practices
1. How to meditate: Basic Mindfulness Meditation
The breath is a great tool for meditation and a simple way to gain powerful insights into the body-mind connection. Sit on the floor or in a chair in a quiet place and follow along with this simple how-to meditation using the breath as a focal point. After a brief introduction, the meditation begins around the 1:25 mark.
*DISCLAIMER*
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This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
