Before beginning a meditation practice, those new to meditation should be prepared to make both the time and space commitments necessary to practice daily meditation. Additionally, beginners need to select a meditation posture to use while practicing meditation. Finally, people new to meditation should be prepared to use a meditation timer to ensure that they complete each daily meditation practice.
Creating Time and Space for Meditation Practice
Two of the most important aspects of meditation are creating both the time and the space in which to meditate. Creating the time means simply making a commitment that one will spend 10 (or 20, or 30) minutes per day meditating, and then making that happen. This might mean waking up earlier, taking time away from evening television, or setting aside time before going to sleep at night.
It’s important to create a space in which to practice meditation. This must be a place in which one can meditate without disruption or disturbance for the chosen amount of time. Many people find it helpful to reserve a room or a corner of a room for meditation practice only. It’s also common to create a small shrine with candles and/or objects of significance in the meditation space.
Adopting a Meditation Posture
A number of meditation postures are commonly used, including the lotus, half-lotus, and crossed-leg postures. A cushion is often used to help support the body when seated in these positions. Other options include kneeling, sitting in a chair, or even lying down. The eyes can be closed or open, depending on the meditation practice chosen or one’s personal preference. The hands can simply be placed on the legs, palms up or down, or in one of several mudras.
Using a Meditation Timer
A meditation timer is a particularly useful tool for those learning to meditate. This way, one can choose a time period for meditation practice before starting. Otherwise, people often tend to stop before the allotted time is up, or else steal surreptitious glances at the clock throughout the meditation practice. This is obviously distracting and defeats the purpose of meditation.
The easiest meditation timer that most people already possess is a cellular phone. Simply turn the phone’s sounds off to “Alarm Only,” and set the alarm for the desired length of meditation. If necessary, set the phone out of arm’s reach so that checking how much time is left isn’t possible. Choose an alarm that is gentle, not jarring, to alert one as to when the meditation session is complete.
Ready, Set, Go: It’s Time to Learn a Meditation Practice
Meditation for beginners starts with creating the time and space for meditation in one’s life. Adopting a meditation posture and being willing to use a meditation timer come next. After these steps have been taken, it is time to learn some meditation techniques and start reaping the benefits of meditation in one’s life.
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