Three Tips to Help You Meditate More Easily

I started meditation about a year ago and know how hard it can be when you first start out. These tips will help you to meditate more effectively. I still use these simple techniques in my own practise.

1. Count your breaths

This will help you to focus and calm down an active mind. You should breathe in slowly, deeply and quietly. Count each breath from one up to ten and then start over at one again. Don’t worry if your mind wonders off at times… this is normal, just focus back on your breathing again. With a little practise you will find that you can focus your mind better and will not be distracted as easily.

2. Use a mantra

A mantra is a word or short series of words that you repeat to yourself silently while meditating. You could do an Internet search and choose a mantra that you like to get you started. Alternatively you could make up your own. I find that using a mantra makes me feel very calm and enables me to focus my thoughts more easily.

3. Observe your thoughts

Sometimes when you meditate thoughts will come up. These may be positive or negative. The main thing is to not attach yourself to anything that comes up. Instead you should try to observe your thoughts and watch them closely. I found this difficult at first because often painful memories would come up and make me feel uncomfortable. Then I learnt to just observe them and not attach myself to them. You will get better at observing your thoughts through practise.

I hope you find these tips helpful. Please make use of them if you are just starting to meditate. You will find that over time meditation will become easier and you will be able to meditate for longer periods of time.

John Edmunds is passionate about self development and enjoys writing articles to help others.

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