Meditation

Maranie: Do you meditate? How often, for how long? Any suggestions or piece of advice for the beginners?

Aum Shanti: I did everyday at one point in life but now only a few times a month. I am feeling the pull again for a regular practice though.

Pick up a guided meditation dvd or find a video you like on YouTube. Follow it and once comfortable discontinue using it and practice on your own without. Start slow and do maybe only 2-3 minutes initially or whatever you are comfortable with, then increase that time a minute or two each session until you have built up to 30 min. 20-30 min a day is a good foundation to reap the benefits. After practicing consistently you will see and feel a difference in life. You will be more "in tune" and notice more subtle things that you may not normally because ones mind is too cluttered. Things are sharper, like putting on glasses. You are seeing the same things but with a clearer perspective.

I relate it to clearing the mental cache like cleaning out excess data on a phone or computer. There is also a natural cause and effect principle involved. Even though you are technically doing nothing, you are consciously doing nothing with intent so there will be a natural result in turn, that result is the emotional and mental benefit you will eventually see and feel. Don't rush it and just start slow, you will increase practice length quickly if done daily.

Also, all those peripheral things like lighting a candle, soft music, incense, etc can be helpful as a pre meditation "ritual" to help relax and settle in but are certainly not necessary or required. The same time and place everyday however is very beneficial and recommended. The quieter the better.

Namaste!