Thursday, October 10, 2013

Experience Meditation And Yoga For A Healthier Life

By Samantha Jones


Meditation and yoga have been practiced for thousands of years. But for many people there has always been an air of mystery attached to the processes. This introduction will show you how simple it is to begin to acquire a healthier and calmer lifestyle.

Originally, yoga had spiritual or religious associations but you do not have to have any particular beliefs to practice. It has been a common routine for all kinds of cultures over the years and is not exclusive. Anyone can be involved.

It is both a mental and physical activity that comprises a series of poses or asanas, meditation and breath control. A more classical form of meditation process will use a mantra. If you prefer to use a mantra choose either a word or a phrase that has a deep personal meaning. Sit quietly and keep repeating the word or phrase. Perhaps you will find your mind wanders. If so, continue to repeat the word to bring back your focus. By using a mantra it should begin to bring about an inner peace.

People who follow yoga take up poses or shapes that will help them to relax. Perhaps the locust and cat pose are the best known. Others are the butterfly, the cobra, the lunge and the cradle. These positions will help your posture and strengthen your body at the same time.

There are several kinds of meditation and are followed by many different cultures and religions. But there are common principles. It is about paying attention and focusing your awareness. Someone who meditates is trying to bring the mind and body into harmony. At the same time they are striving for inner peace and well being.

Followers of meditation believe that focusing the mind leads to increased concentration. This results in better performance in both work and leisure. It helps to enhance the senses, whether it is in art, music, sex or food. Paying more attention usually results in a greater sense of enjoyment. The mind calms down.

You can learn the basic principles in a few minutes. Sit in a comfortable position. Make sure your back is straight. Breathe deeply and follow your breath. You can follow this procedure at any time of day. First thing in the morning, refreshed from a sound sleep, before your mind has had time to focus on any worries or concerns, is a good time. Alternatively, during your lunch break or before bed instead of watching television is equally acceptable. Try to choose the same time each day.

Find a comfortable area to meditate. You can walk around but there may be other distractions. Choose a place with happy memories or special vibes. You could set up an alter if you choose a room in your home. This will assist your concentration that should result from a better focus. An alter may not necessarily have a religious focus although you can place sacred scripts on it. You could also include personal pictures, flowers, candles or statues. Wherever you choose for meditation and yoga, you will find a satisfying and disciplined form of relaxation.




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