Feeling stressed?  Meditation can help you b more chill!

Summer is a time to unwind from the trials and tribulations of the school year and plan for the future.  Sometimes in order to see clearly you have to take a step back and relax.  One way to attain a sense of inner peace is practicing the art of meditation.

Though meditation is associated with some religious practices, secular society is turning to meditation more and more often as a way of helping to channel our self-awareness in a positive direction.

Here are some tips to get stared:

• To meditate, you must get away (even just briefly) from the rest of the world.  Turn off your technology (that means everything.. your cell phone, computer, Ninetendo DS, PSP, etc.) to minimize interruptions.
• Have a place to meditate.  You might choose to set aside a special place just to meditate in your home.  Weather permitting, outdoor meditation is also effective
• Try to make sure your chosen place is a comfortable temperature.  Also wear loose, comfortable clothing.
• You do not have to sit cross-legged, though that is the typical posture for meditation.  The key is to find a comfortable way to sit and do not have to shift around.  Sit on a mat or a towel.  You can also use a comfortable chair. 
• What do you think about?  To start with concentrate on your breathing-if you find your mind racing, you can count your breaths, one on inhalation, one for exhalation.  Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.  Watch your thoughts come and go.  Do not try to direct them, just observe and try not to get caught up in any one thought.  If this does happen, shift your focus back to your breathing.
• A good beginning length to meditate is 15-20 minutes. 
• When you are finished meditating, be sure to get up slowly with calm, gentle movements.
• One session of meditation can be beneficial, but one session alone cannot bring inner changes or long-term self-awareness.  A daily regimen of meditation is essential to reach that goal.

 

Helpful Meditation Websites:

• How to Meditate
• How to get Started with Meditation

Other relaxing ideas:

• Home Spa Ideas
• Recognizing stress in your life
• Ways to de-stress your life
• Create a Personal Stress Management Guide

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