Law of Self-Recovery 
Your Subtitle text
Types of Meditation
Eastern Techniques
Meditate: Raja Yoga
If the mind becomes peaceful there will be peace within and the world which we live in, will become a better place. The aim in our lives should be; to create peace in the mind through the understanding of the self being a soul or a positive energy. The soul is the energy that creates thoughts. With this awareness, the individual can aspire to sustain a flow of positive and peaceful thoughts.
Meditate on your soul
I now withdraw my attention away from the world around me.........
My eyes are open and rested.............
I focus my thoughts energy on myself ....
I the being of light.........
Thoughts of the outside world gradually fade away as I feel a burden being lifted from my mind.......
I see my physical on the screen of my mind ...
I realize that I am not my physical body, it is merely an instrument for the transport of my soul.....
I am an eternal point of life positive energy....
This point of energy is the life force of the body......
In this state of awareness I become pure energy and consciousness........
Thoughts emerging on the screen of my mind are being viewed like watching a movie on a picture screen......
I allow the negative thoughts to pass without being distracted by them .......
For I am an eternal radiant light ..
Shinning like a star in the midnight sky........
I concentrate my thoughts on this one aspect ...That I am a concentrated spark of light ....
Radiating light and love to the world.......
As my thoughts concentrate I fill with power ....
I become light .....
floating......
I find deep peace within.
It is best to meditate on a daily basis.
Meditating every day will make the mind healthy, positive and prosperous.
More on Raja Yoga Meditation
The time is always right to do what is right. - Martin Luther King Jr.
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Meditate: Raja Yoga
If the mind becomes peaceful there will be peace within and the world which we live in, will become a better place. The aim in our lives should be; to create peace in the mind through the understanding of the self being a soul or a positive energy. The soul is the energy that creates thoughts. With this awareness, the individual can aspire to sustain a flow of positive and peaceful thoughts.
Meditate on your soul
I now withdraw my attention away from the world around me.........
My eyes are open and rested.............
I focus my thoughts energy on myself ....
I the being of light.........
Thoughts of the outside world gradually fade away as I feel a burden being lifted from my mind.......
I see my physical on the screen of my mind ...
I realize that I am not my physical body, it is merely an instrument for the transport of my soul.....
I am an eternal point of life positive energy....
This point of energy is the life force of the body......
In this state of awareness I become pure energy and consciousness........
Thoughts emerging on the screen of my mind are being viewed like watching a movie on a picture screen......
I allow the negative thoughts to pass without being distracted by them .......
For I am an eternal radiant light ..
Shinning like a star in the midnight sky........
I concentrate my thoughts on this one aspect ...That I am a concentrated spark of light ....
Radiating light and love to the world.......
As my thoughts concentrate I fill with power ....
I become light .....
floating......
I find deep peace within.
It is best to meditate on a daily basis.
Meditating every day will make the mind healthy, positive and prosperous.
More on Raja Yoga Meditation
The time is always right to do what is right. - Martin Luther King Jr.
........................................................................................................................................
Meditate with Sahaja Yoga
Sahaja mediation was created by Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi in 1970 and has since spread all around the world.
In Shri Mataji's said, "Global unity of mankind can be achieved through this awakening that can occur within each human being, so that transformation takes place within us. By this process a person becomes moral, united, integrated and balanced.
One actually gets the experience of the feeling of the all-pervading divine power as cool breeze. "Know thyself" is the main theme of all the scriptures - it becomes evident and one reaches the absolute understanding of oneself.
Meditate on love and Joy
Thus one becomes peaceful and joyous in life. One becomes collective as a drop falling into the ocean of compassion. This method works for the multitudes and not individually. Of course one cannot pay for the experience of Divine Love. Moreover, it is the last breakthrough of our evolution. This is the actualization of such transformation, which is taking place now, worldwide, and has been proved and experienced by hundreds of thousands in over 85 countries."
This inner awakening is called by many names: Self Realization, Second Birth, Enlightenment, Liberation, Moksha, Satori and it is the goal of all religions and spiritual traditions of the world.
This knowledge is ancient, but for a long time it was available only to a few souls, being kept secret and transmitted from guru to disciple, since Self Realization was extremely difficult to achieve. In these modern times, through Sahaja ("spontaneous") Yoga ("union with one's Self"), this experience has become effortless and available to everyone, for the first time in the history of human spirituality.
Become light -meditate today
To meditate is to love the self and others
Sahaja mediation was created by Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi in 1970 and has since spread all around the world.
In Shri Mataji's said, "Global unity of mankind can be achieved through this awakening that can occur within each human being, so that transformation takes place within us. By this process a person becomes moral, united, integrated and balanced.
One actually gets the experience of the feeling of the all-pervading divine power as cool breeze. "Know thyself" is the main theme of all the scriptures - it becomes evident and one reaches the absolute understanding of oneself.
Meditate on love and Joy
Thus one becomes peaceful and joyous in life. One becomes collective as a drop falling into the ocean of compassion. This method works for the multitudes and not individually. Of course one cannot pay for the experience of Divine Love. Moreover, it is the last breakthrough of our evolution. This is the actualization of such transformation, which is taking place now, worldwide, and has been proved and experienced by hundreds of thousands in over 85 countries."
This inner awakening is called by many names: Self Realization, Second Birth, Enlightenment, Liberation, Moksha, Satori and it is the goal of all religions and spiritual traditions of the world.
This knowledge is ancient, but for a long time it was available only to a few souls, being kept secret and transmitted from guru to disciple, since Self Realization was extremely difficult to achieve. In these modern times, through Sahaja ("spontaneous") Yoga ("union with one's Self"), this experience has become effortless and available to everyone, for the first time in the history of human spirituality.
Become light -meditate today
To meditate is to love the self and others
...............................................................................................................................
Paramahansa Yogananda : Kriya Yoga
How to Meditate with Kriya Yoga
Kriya Yoga is a complete system covering a range of techniques, including mantras and techniques of meditation for control and mastery of the life-force, bringing inner peace and control of both body and mind.
Around 1920, Paramahansa Yogananda introduced Kriya Yoga to the West and founded the Self-Realization Fellowship. Yogananda demonstrated his extraordinary abilities even after his Maha-Samadhi (death) which he had announced ahead of time. The Mortuary Director of Forest Lawn Memorial-Park testified in a notarized letter:
"The absence of any visual signs of decay in the dead body of Yogananda offers the most extraordinary case in our experience."
The letter continues that twenty days after Yogananda's passing, his body looked as fresh as on the day of his final exit on March 7, 1952.
Meditate using the techniques of Kriya Yoga:
1. Preparing the body. To promote health and gain a certain control over body functions, some practice Hatha Yoga. Others, who are not that flexible or are restricted in time, are content with a 15 minute program of easier exercises, consisting of stretching and bending, designed by Yogananda for maximum result.
2. Preparing the mind. Kriya Yoga is said to be a combination of the more useful Yoga techniques. Like Raja Yoga, Kriya teaches the laws of general conduct (yama and niyama), including harmlessness, truthfulness, non-stealing, etc. Kriya promotes the study of metaphysical principles, physical and mental health, cleanliness and purity.
3. Practice. For the purpose of practicing Meditating, Mantras are introduced. Lessons or initiation teach the seeker how to use Mantras like So-ham, Ham-sa, Hong-so, and OM.
4. Mudras. Mudras are added to gain even more control over the flow of energy.
5. Higher Kriyas.For advanced students there are still a few higher Kriya techniques. However, full Self-realization may already be gained by practicing faithfully the Mantras given for regular Meditation.
Meditate today and lead a stress free life tomorrow
Paramahansa Yogananda
Paramahansa Yogananda was born Mukunda Lal Ghosh on January 5, 1893, in Gorakhpur, India, into a devout and well-to-do Bengali family. From his earliest years, it was evident to those around him that the depth of his awareness and experience of the spiritual was far beyond the ordinary. In his youth he sought out many of India's sages and saints, hoping to find an illumined teacher to guide him in his spiritual quest.
It was in 1910, at the age of 17, that he met and became a disciple of the revered Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri. In the hermitage of this great master of Yoga he spent the better part of the next ten years, receiving Sri Yukteswar's strict but loving spiritual discipline. After he graduated from Calcutta University in 1915, he took formal vows as a monk of India's venerable monastic Swami Order, at which time he received the name Yogananda (signifying bliss, ananda, through divine union, yoga). His ardent desire to consecrate his life to the love and service of God thus found fulfillment.
Meditate using Kriya Yoga
In 1920, Yogananda was invited to serve as India's delegate to an international congress of religious leaders convening in Boston. His address to the congress, on "The Science of Religion," was enthusiastically received. That same year he founded Self-Realization Fellowship to disseminate worldwide his teachings on India's ancient science and philosophy of Kriya Yoga and its time-honored tradition of learning and teaching how to meditate.
Over the next decade, Yogananda traveled and lectured widely, speaking to capacity audiences in many of the largest auditoriums in the country -- from New York's Carnegie Hall to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The Los Angeles Times reported: "The Philharmonic Auditorium presents the extraordinary spectacle of thousands....being turned away an hour before the advertised opening of a lecture with the 3000-seat hall filled to its utmost capacity."
Among those who became his students were many prominent figures in science, business, and the arts, including horticulturist Luther Burbank, operatic soprano Amelita Galli-Curci, George Eastman (inventor of the Kodak camera), poet Edwin Markham, and symphony conductor Leopold Stokowski. In 1927, he was officially received at the White House by President Calvin Coolidge, who had become interested in the newspaper reports of his activities.
During the 1930s, Paramahansa Yogananda began to withdraw somewhat from his nationwide public lecturing so as to devote himself to the writings that would carry his message to future generations, and to building an enduring foundation for the spiritual and humanitarian work of Self-Realization Fellowship (known in India as Yogoda Satsanga Society).
Yogananda's life story, Autobiography of a Yogi, was published in 1946 and expanded by him in subsequent editions. A perennial best seller, the book has been in continuous publication since it first appeared and has been translated into 18 languages. It is widely regarded as a modern spiritual classic.
On March 7, 1952, Paramahansa Yogananda entered mahasamadhi, a God-illumined master's conscious exit from the body at the time of physical death. His passing was marked by an extraordinary phenomenon. A notarized statement signed by the Director of Forest Lawn Memorial-Park testified: "No physical disintegration was visible in his body even twenty days after death....This state of perfect preservation of a body is, so far as we know from mortuary annals, an unparalleled one....Yogananda's body was apparently in a phenomenal state of immutability."
To learn to meditate will open your own creative mind and reduce negative thinking.
..................................................................................................................................................
Paramahansa Yogananda : Kriya Yoga
How to Meditate with Kriya Yoga
Kriya Yoga is a complete system covering a range of techniques, including mantras and techniques of meditation for control and mastery of the life-force, bringing inner peace and control of both body and mind.
Around 1920, Paramahansa Yogananda introduced Kriya Yoga to the West and founded the Self-Realization Fellowship. Yogananda demonstrated his extraordinary abilities even after his Maha-Samadhi (death) which he had announced ahead of time. The Mortuary Director of Forest Lawn Memorial-Park testified in a notarized letter:
"The absence of any visual signs of decay in the dead body of Yogananda offers the most extraordinary case in our experience."
The letter continues that twenty days after Yogananda's passing, his body looked as fresh as on the day of his final exit on March 7, 1952.
Meditate using the techniques of Kriya Yoga:
1. Preparing the body. To promote health and gain a certain control over body functions, some practice Hatha Yoga. Others, who are not that flexible or are restricted in time, are content with a 15 minute program of easier exercises, consisting of stretching and bending, designed by Yogananda for maximum result.
2. Preparing the mind. Kriya Yoga is said to be a combination of the more useful Yoga techniques. Like Raja Yoga, Kriya teaches the laws of general conduct (yama and niyama), including harmlessness, truthfulness, non-stealing, etc. Kriya promotes the study of metaphysical principles, physical and mental health, cleanliness and purity.
3. Practice. For the purpose of practicing Meditating, Mantras are introduced. Lessons or initiation teach the seeker how to use Mantras like So-ham, Ham-sa, Hong-so, and OM.
4. Mudras. Mudras are added to gain even more control over the flow of energy.
5. Higher Kriyas.For advanced students there are still a few higher Kriya techniques. However, full Self-realization may already be gained by practicing faithfully the Mantras given for regular Meditation.
Meditate today and lead a stress free life tomorrow
Paramahansa Yogananda
Paramahansa Yogananda was born Mukunda Lal Ghosh on January 5, 1893, in Gorakhpur, India, into a devout and well-to-do Bengali family. From his earliest years, it was evident to those around him that the depth of his awareness and experience of the spiritual was far beyond the ordinary. In his youth he sought out many of India's sages and saints, hoping to find an illumined teacher to guide him in his spiritual quest.
It was in 1910, at the age of 17, that he met and became a disciple of the revered Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri. In the hermitage of this great master of Yoga he spent the better part of the next ten years, receiving Sri Yukteswar's strict but loving spiritual discipline. After he graduated from Calcutta University in 1915, he took formal vows as a monk of India's venerable monastic Swami Order, at which time he received the name Yogananda (signifying bliss, ananda, through divine union, yoga). His ardent desire to consecrate his life to the love and service of God thus found fulfillment.
Meditate using Kriya Yoga
In 1920, Yogananda was invited to serve as India's delegate to an international congress of religious leaders convening in Boston. His address to the congress, on "The Science of Religion," was enthusiastically received. That same year he founded Self-Realization Fellowship to disseminate worldwide his teachings on India's ancient science and philosophy of Kriya Yoga and its time-honored tradition of learning and teaching how to meditate.
Over the next decade, Yogananda traveled and lectured widely, speaking to capacity audiences in many of the largest auditoriums in the country -- from New York's Carnegie Hall to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The Los Angeles Times reported: "The Philharmonic Auditorium presents the extraordinary spectacle of thousands....being turned away an hour before the advertised opening of a lecture with the 3000-seat hall filled to its utmost capacity."
Among those who became his students were many prominent figures in science, business, and the arts, including horticulturist Luther Burbank, operatic soprano Amelita Galli-Curci, George Eastman (inventor of the Kodak camera), poet Edwin Markham, and symphony conductor Leopold Stokowski. In 1927, he was officially received at the White House by President Calvin Coolidge, who had become interested in the newspaper reports of his activities.
During the 1930s, Paramahansa Yogananda began to withdraw somewhat from his nationwide public lecturing so as to devote himself to the writings that would carry his message to future generations, and to building an enduring foundation for the spiritual and humanitarian work of Self-Realization Fellowship (known in India as Yogoda Satsanga Society).
Yogananda's life story, Autobiography of a Yogi, was published in 1946 and expanded by him in subsequent editions. A perennial best seller, the book has been in continuous publication since it first appeared and has been translated into 18 languages. It is widely regarded as a modern spiritual classic.
On March 7, 1952, Paramahansa Yogananda entered mahasamadhi, a God-illumined master's conscious exit from the body at the time of physical death. His passing was marked by an extraordinary phenomenon. A notarized statement signed by the Director of Forest Lawn Memorial-Park testified: "No physical disintegration was visible in his body even twenty days after death....This state of perfect preservation of a body is, so far as we know from mortuary annals, an unparalleled one....Yogananda's body was apparently in a phenomenal state of immutability."
To learn to meditate will open your own creative mind and reduce negative thinking.
..................................................................................................................................................
Meditate : Buddhist Meditation
There is still comparatively little known about the mind, its functions and its powers, and it is difficult for most people to distinguish between self-hypnosis, the development of mediumistic states, and the real process of mental clarification and direct perception which is the object of how to meditate using Buddhist mental concentration. The fact that mystics of every religion have induced on themselves states wherein they see visions and hear voices that are in accordance with their own religious beliefs indicates that their meditation has resulted only in bringing to the surface of the mind and objectifying the concepts already embedded in the deepest strata of their subconscious minds.
Meditate beyond visions
The Hindu who has conversed with Bhagavan Krishna may be quite satisfied that he has fulfilled the purpose of his religious life, but the Buddhist who sees a vision of the Buddha knows by that very fact that he has only succeeded in objectifying a concept in his own mind, for the Buddha after his Parinibbana is, in his own words, no longer visible to gods or men.
There is an essential difference, then, between Buddhist meditation and concentration and that practiced in other systems. The Buddhist embarking on a course of how to meditate does well to recognize this difference and to establish in his own conscious mind a clear idea of what it is he is trying to do.
How to meditate with a purpose
The purpose of learning to meditate with a Buddhist meditation, is to gain more than an intellectual understanding of this truth, to liberate ourselves from the delusion and thereby put an end to both ignorance and craving. If the meditation does not produce results tending to this consummation -- results which are observable in the character and the whole attitude to life -- it is clear that there is something wrong either with the system or with the method of employing it. It is not enough to see lights, to have visions or to experience ecstasy. These phenomena are too common to be impressive to the Buddhist who really understands the purpose of Buddhist meditation.
Devices in Meditation
Anapana Sati
Samatha Bhavana
Vipassana Bhavana
Metta Bhavana
All the contents in this section are taken from Buddhist Meditation by Francis Story published by Buddhist Publication Society, Sri Lanka, 1986.
.............................................................................
Devices: How to Meditate
In 'kammattana', it is permissible to use certain devices, such as the earth or colour as focal points for the attention.
A candle flame, a hole in the wall, or some metal object may also be used.
In the texts themselves it is to be noted that the Buddha gave objects of meditation to disciples in accordance with their individual characteristics, and his unerring knowledge of the right technique for each came from his insight into their previous births.
Similarly with recursive meditation, a subject would be given which was easily comprehensible to the pupil, or which served to counteract some strong, unwholesome tendency in his nature.
Thus, to one attracted by sensual indulgence, the Buddha would recommend meditation on the impurity of the body, or the "cemetery meditation."
The use of the rosary in Buddhism is often misunderstood. If it is used for the mechanical repetition of a set formula, the repeating of so many phrases as an act of piety, as in other religions, its value is negligible. When it is used as means of holding the attention and purifying the mind, however, it can be a great help.
This cannot be carried out successfully unless the mind is entirely concentrated on what is being done. At the same time the recalling of the noble qualities of Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha lifts the mind to a lofty plane, since the words carry with them a meaning the impresses itself on the pattern of the thought-moments as they arise and pass away.
The value of this in terms of Abhidhamma psychology lies in the wholesome nature of the 'cittakkhana', or "consciousness-moment" in its 'uppada' (arising), 'thiti' (static) and 'bhanga' (disappearing) phases.
Transform your mind, learn to meditate and find happiness.
........................................................................
Learn to Meditate: Anapana Sati
One of the most universally-applicable methods of cultivating mental concentration is 'anapanasati', attentiveness on the in-going and out-going breath.
This, unlike the Yogic systems, does not call for any interference with the normal breathing, the breath being merely used as a point on which to fix the attention, at the tip of the nostrils.
The attention must not wander, even to follow the breath, but must be kept rigidly on the selected spot.
As the state of mental quiescence ('samatha') is approached, the breath appears to become fainter and fainter, until it is hardly discernible. It is at this stage that certain psychic phenomena appear, which may at first be disconcerting.
A stage is reached when the actual bodily 'dukkha', the sensation of arising and passing away of the physical elements in the body, is felt.
It is the first direct experience of the 'dukkha' (suffering) which is inherent in all phenomena -- the realization within oneself of the first of the Four Noble Truths, 'Dukkha Ariya Sacca'.
When that is passed there follows the sensation of 'piti', rapturous joy associated with the physical body.
Meditate: Samatha Bhavana
'Samatha bhavana', the development of mental peace, tranquility with concentration, is accompanied by three benefits;
1. happiness and peace in the present life.
2. A good rebirth.
3. The freedom from mental defilements.
In 'samatha' the mind becomes like a still, clear pool completely free from disturbance and anger, and ready to mirror on its surface the nature of things as they really are, m which is hidden from ordinary knowledge by the restlessness of desire and craving.
Learn to Meditate and love your self and your life.
................................................
learn to Meditate: Vipassana Bhavana
'Vipassana bhavana' is realization of the three signs.
Three characteristics, impermanence, suffering and non-self, can be grasped intellectually, as scientific and philosophical truth, but this is not in itself sufficient to rid the mind of egoism and craving.
The final objective lies on a higher level of awareness, the direct "intuitional" plane, where it is actually experienced as psychological fact.
Until this personal confirmation is obtained, the sphere of sense perception ('ayatana') and sensory-responses remain stronger than the intellectual conviction; the two function side by side on different levels of consciousness, but it is usually the sphere dominated by 'avijja' which continues to determine the course of life by volitional action.
For the more advanced exercises of 'samatha' and 'vipassana', however, the strictest observance of 'sila', the basic moral rules, becomes necessary.
These techniques are best followed in seclusion, away from the impurities of worldly life and under the guidance of an accomplished master.
Learn to meditate and dive deep into the inner spring of positive thinking and joyful feelings.
.................................................................
Meditate using Metta Bhavana Technique
'Metta bhavana' is the most universally beneficial form of discursive meditation, and can be practiced in any conditions. Thoughts of universal, undiscriminating benevolence, like radio waves reaching out in all directions, sublimate the creative energy of the mind.
With steady perseverance in 'metta bhavana' a point can be reached at which it becomes impossible even to harbor a thought of ill-will.
True peace can only come to the world through minds that are at peace, If people everywhere in the world could be persuaded to devote half an hour daily to the practice of 'metta bhavana', we should see more real advance towards world peace and security than international agreements will ever bring us.
It would be a good thing if, in this new era of the Buddha Sasana, people of all creeds could be invited to take part in a world-wide movement for the practice of 'metta bhavana' and pledge themselves to live in accordance with the highest tenets of their own religion, whatever it may be. In so doing they could be paying homage to the Supreme Buddha and to their own particular religious teacher as well, for on this level all the great religions of the world unite.
If there is a common denominator to be found among them, it is surely here, in the teaching of universal loving-kindness which transcends doctrinal differences and draws all being together by the power of a timeless and all-embracing truth.
Suffusing with 'metta' all beings in the ten directions is carried out in the same way. Directing his mind towards the east, the meditator concentrates on the thought: "May all beings in the east be free from enmity; may they be free from ill will; may they be rid of suffering; may they be happy!"
Be kind to your mind, learn to meditate and change your life for the better.
...............................................................................
There is still comparatively little known about the mind, its functions and its powers, and it is difficult for most people to distinguish between self-hypnosis, the development of mediumistic states, and the real process of mental clarification and direct perception which is the object of how to meditate using Buddhist mental concentration. The fact that mystics of every religion have induced on themselves states wherein they see visions and hear voices that are in accordance with their own religious beliefs indicates that their meditation has resulted only in bringing to the surface of the mind and objectifying the concepts already embedded in the deepest strata of their subconscious minds.
Meditate beyond visions
The Hindu who has conversed with Bhagavan Krishna may be quite satisfied that he has fulfilled the purpose of his religious life, but the Buddhist who sees a vision of the Buddha knows by that very fact that he has only succeeded in objectifying a concept in his own mind, for the Buddha after his Parinibbana is, in his own words, no longer visible to gods or men.
There is an essential difference, then, between Buddhist meditation and concentration and that practiced in other systems. The Buddhist embarking on a course of how to meditate does well to recognize this difference and to establish in his own conscious mind a clear idea of what it is he is trying to do.
How to meditate with a purpose
The purpose of learning to meditate with a Buddhist meditation, is to gain more than an intellectual understanding of this truth, to liberate ourselves from the delusion and thereby put an end to both ignorance and craving. If the meditation does not produce results tending to this consummation -- results which are observable in the character and the whole attitude to life -- it is clear that there is something wrong either with the system or with the method of employing it. It is not enough to see lights, to have visions or to experience ecstasy. These phenomena are too common to be impressive to the Buddhist who really understands the purpose of Buddhist meditation.
Devices in Meditation
Anapana Sati
Samatha Bhavana
Vipassana Bhavana
Metta Bhavana
All the contents in this section are taken from Buddhist Meditation by Francis Story published by Buddhist Publication Society, Sri Lanka, 1986.
.............................................................................
Devices: How to Meditate
In 'kammattana', it is permissible to use certain devices, such as the earth or colour as focal points for the attention.
A candle flame, a hole in the wall, or some metal object may also be used.
In the texts themselves it is to be noted that the Buddha gave objects of meditation to disciples in accordance with their individual characteristics, and his unerring knowledge of the right technique for each came from his insight into their previous births.
Similarly with recursive meditation, a subject would be given which was easily comprehensible to the pupil, or which served to counteract some strong, unwholesome tendency in his nature.
Thus, to one attracted by sensual indulgence, the Buddha would recommend meditation on the impurity of the body, or the "cemetery meditation."
The use of the rosary in Buddhism is often misunderstood. If it is used for the mechanical repetition of a set formula, the repeating of so many phrases as an act of piety, as in other religions, its value is negligible. When it is used as means of holding the attention and purifying the mind, however, it can be a great help.
This cannot be carried out successfully unless the mind is entirely concentrated on what is being done. At the same time the recalling of the noble qualities of Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha lifts the mind to a lofty plane, since the words carry with them a meaning the impresses itself on the pattern of the thought-moments as they arise and pass away.
The value of this in terms of Abhidhamma psychology lies in the wholesome nature of the 'cittakkhana', or "consciousness-moment" in its 'uppada' (arising), 'thiti' (static) and 'bhanga' (disappearing) phases.
Transform your mind, learn to meditate and find happiness.
........................................................................
Learn to Meditate: Anapana Sati
One of the most universally-applicable methods of cultivating mental concentration is 'anapanasati', attentiveness on the in-going and out-going breath.
This, unlike the Yogic systems, does not call for any interference with the normal breathing, the breath being merely used as a point on which to fix the attention, at the tip of the nostrils.
The attention must not wander, even to follow the breath, but must be kept rigidly on the selected spot.
As the state of mental quiescence ('samatha') is approached, the breath appears to become fainter and fainter, until it is hardly discernible. It is at this stage that certain psychic phenomena appear, which may at first be disconcerting.
A stage is reached when the actual bodily 'dukkha', the sensation of arising and passing away of the physical elements in the body, is felt.
It is the first direct experience of the 'dukkha' (suffering) which is inherent in all phenomena -- the realization within oneself of the first of the Four Noble Truths, 'Dukkha Ariya Sacca'.
When that is passed there follows the sensation of 'piti', rapturous joy associated with the physical body.
Meditate: Samatha Bhavana
'Samatha bhavana', the development of mental peace, tranquility with concentration, is accompanied by three benefits;
1. happiness and peace in the present life.
2. A good rebirth.
3. The freedom from mental defilements.
In 'samatha' the mind becomes like a still, clear pool completely free from disturbance and anger, and ready to mirror on its surface the nature of things as they really are, m which is hidden from ordinary knowledge by the restlessness of desire and craving.
Learn to Meditate and love your self and your life.
................................................
learn to Meditate: Vipassana Bhavana
'Vipassana bhavana' is realization of the three signs.
Three characteristics, impermanence, suffering and non-self, can be grasped intellectually, as scientific and philosophical truth, but this is not in itself sufficient to rid the mind of egoism and craving.
The final objective lies on a higher level of awareness, the direct "intuitional" plane, where it is actually experienced as psychological fact.
Until this personal confirmation is obtained, the sphere of sense perception ('ayatana') and sensory-responses remain stronger than the intellectual conviction; the two function side by side on different levels of consciousness, but it is usually the sphere dominated by 'avijja' which continues to determine the course of life by volitional action.
For the more advanced exercises of 'samatha' and 'vipassana', however, the strictest observance of 'sila', the basic moral rules, becomes necessary.
These techniques are best followed in seclusion, away from the impurities of worldly life and under the guidance of an accomplished master.
Learn to meditate and dive deep into the inner spring of positive thinking and joyful feelings.
.................................................................
Meditate using Metta Bhavana Technique
'Metta bhavana' is the most universally beneficial form of discursive meditation, and can be practiced in any conditions. Thoughts of universal, undiscriminating benevolence, like radio waves reaching out in all directions, sublimate the creative energy of the mind.
With steady perseverance in 'metta bhavana' a point can be reached at which it becomes impossible even to harbor a thought of ill-will.
True peace can only come to the world through minds that are at peace, If people everywhere in the world could be persuaded to devote half an hour daily to the practice of 'metta bhavana', we should see more real advance towards world peace and security than international agreements will ever bring us.
It would be a good thing if, in this new era of the Buddha Sasana, people of all creeds could be invited to take part in a world-wide movement for the practice of 'metta bhavana' and pledge themselves to live in accordance with the highest tenets of their own religion, whatever it may be. In so doing they could be paying homage to the Supreme Buddha and to their own particular religious teacher as well, for on this level all the great religions of the world unite.
If there is a common denominator to be found among them, it is surely here, in the teaching of universal loving-kindness which transcends doctrinal differences and draws all being together by the power of a timeless and all-embracing truth.
Suffusing with 'metta' all beings in the ten directions is carried out in the same way. Directing his mind towards the east, the meditator concentrates on the thought: "May all beings in the east be free from enmity; may they be free from ill will; may they be rid of suffering; may they be happy!"
Be kind to your mind, learn to meditate and change your life for the better.
...............................................................................
Meditate with Buddhist Breath
Meditate on the Buddhist Breath meditation
Coordinate the breath sensations throughout the body, letting them flow together comfortably, keeping your awareness as broad as possible.
Once you are fully aware of the aspects of the breath you already know in your body, you'll come to know all sorts of other aspects as well.
The breath, by its nature, has many facets: breath sensations flowing in the nerves, those flowing around and about the nerves those spreading from the nerves to every pore.
Beneficial breath sensations and harmful ones are mixed together by their very
nature.
Hope you learn to meditate and become calm and peaceful.
.................................................................
Meditate: Zen Meditation
1. Sit on the forward third of a chair or a cushion on the floor.
2. Straighten and extend your spine, keeping it naturally upright, centering your balance in the lower abdomen. Push your lower back a little forward, open your chest, and tuck your chin in slightly, keeping the head upright, not leaning forward, or backwards, or to the side. Sway your body gently from left to right in decreasing arcs, until you naturally come to a point of stillness on your cushion.
3. Keep your eyes on the floor at a 45-degree angle, neither fully opened nor closed, and gaze naturally about 3 to 4 feet in front of your body. If the eyes are closed, you may want to start to daydream or visualize things. If your eyes are open wide open, your
mind will scatter.
4. Keep your lips and teeth together with your tongue resting against the roof of your mouth.
5. Place your hands on your lap with the right palm up and your left hand (palm up) resting on your right hand, thumb tips lightly touching, forming a vertical oval. This is the mudra of zazen, in which all phenomena are unified. Rest this mudra with the blade of your hands against your abdomen, a few inches below the navel, harmonizing your own center of gravity with the mudra.
6. Take a deep breath, exhale fully, and then take another deep breath, exhaling fully. Let your breathe settle into its natural rhythm.
7. Keep your attention on your breath. When your attention wanders, bring it back to the breath again and again -- as many times as necessary!
8.. Practice this Zen Meditation every day for at least ten to fifteen minutes (or longer).
Relax meditate reduce stress start now
..................................................................
Meditation web sites:
1. How to Meditate
How to meditate, lucid dream, open the third eye, and awaken the kundalini. Learn to meditate and open the chakras. Explore third eye meditation and kundalini meditation.
2. World Wide Online Meditation Center
A colorful, user-friendly site, offering clear, concise meditation instruction on a variety of meditation methods from various spiritual teachings, plus tranquil meditation tapes, guided and instrumental
Meditate on the Buddhist Breath meditation
Coordinate the breath sensations throughout the body, letting them flow together comfortably, keeping your awareness as broad as possible.
Once you are fully aware of the aspects of the breath you already know in your body, you'll come to know all sorts of other aspects as well.
The breath, by its nature, has many facets: breath sensations flowing in the nerves, those flowing around and about the nerves those spreading from the nerves to every pore.
Beneficial breath sensations and harmful ones are mixed together by their very
nature.
Hope you learn to meditate and become calm and peaceful.
.................................................................
Meditate: Zen Meditation
1. Sit on the forward third of a chair or a cushion on the floor.
2. Straighten and extend your spine, keeping it naturally upright, centering your balance in the lower abdomen. Push your lower back a little forward, open your chest, and tuck your chin in slightly, keeping the head upright, not leaning forward, or backwards, or to the side. Sway your body gently from left to right in decreasing arcs, until you naturally come to a point of stillness on your cushion.
3. Keep your eyes on the floor at a 45-degree angle, neither fully opened nor closed, and gaze naturally about 3 to 4 feet in front of your body. If the eyes are closed, you may want to start to daydream or visualize things. If your eyes are open wide open, your
mind will scatter.
4. Keep your lips and teeth together with your tongue resting against the roof of your mouth.
5. Place your hands on your lap with the right palm up and your left hand (palm up) resting on your right hand, thumb tips lightly touching, forming a vertical oval. This is the mudra of zazen, in which all phenomena are unified. Rest this mudra with the blade of your hands against your abdomen, a few inches below the navel, harmonizing your own center of gravity with the mudra.
6. Take a deep breath, exhale fully, and then take another deep breath, exhaling fully. Let your breathe settle into its natural rhythm.
7. Keep your attention on your breath. When your attention wanders, bring it back to the breath again and again -- as many times as necessary!
8.. Practice this Zen Meditation every day for at least ten to fifteen minutes (or longer).
Relax meditate reduce stress start now
..................................................................
Meditation web sites:
1. How to Meditate
How to meditate, lucid dream, open the third eye, and awaken the kundalini. Learn to meditate and open the chakras. Explore third eye meditation and kundalini meditation.
2. World Wide Online Meditation Center
A colorful, user-friendly site, offering clear, concise meditation instruction on a variety of meditation methods from various spiritual teachings, plus tranquil meditation tapes, guided and instrumental
What is the Soul?
The soul is the unchangeable essence of who you are. It is the part of you that hasn't changed since you were born, and will be with you unchanged twenty years from now and forever. Your body and personality will change, but not you the soul. It is immortal and can never be hurt by opening your heart. Your ego may get bruised, but that is not the real You.
Wisdom is your radiance not the truth in your head.
When you give up everything, you discover Everything.
The soul is the Self, the Center. The experience of the soul is in the mind. In the soul you live beyond mental reflections because you are both yourself and everything you see. Within the soul is the whole universe.
When you overanalyze the nature of the soul instead of enjoying and witnessing it (explained in Week 18), energy turns to the lower chakras. When you uplift yourself, you draw up the kundalini into the higher chakras. At the crown chakra you experience the soul in its pure state beyond all dualities.
Pause and contemplate the power of these ideas. Divine contemplation* is placing your awareness on the frequency of one unlimited idea without the mind wandering. In deep contemplation, the idea dissolves into the silence of the soul. From this state, listen to your inner voices without talking back, engaging the mind, and losing touch with the present. The voices will become less active but more wise.
Finally, become silence and contemplate your unchangeable essence. Walk through your days feeling connected with everything and every person. Know that your openness will touch everyone, sometimes provoking tremendous fears within people.
As soul, these responses do not diminish your serenity. You simply alchemize people's fears with love. By contemplating the timeless silence of your soul, you will not react to the illusions of everyday life.
*The first two chapters/months of this book are more about contemplation than meditation. The CD for these chapters, on the other hand, has many meditation techniques. (by Anami)
Breathing Techniques
There is tremendous power in breathing techniques that entrain your thought waves to the slow, healing rhythms of natural breathing. This gradually awakens awareness. The reason: a conscious, gentle breath is always grounded in the present moment the place of spiritual power.
Every time your mind follows your breath,
you heal the past by returning to the present.
These techniques are safe from unbalanced activation of the kundalini. They are useless, however, unless the person discovers the Source of breath the person breathing. All good techniques dissolve as you integrate. You become One Holy Breath (Week 38).
Associate every spiritual exercise with bliss. This conditions the mind to look forward to repeating the exercises. You may just be pretending to be blissful in the beginning, but eventually, with every in-breath you will draw the kundalini up into actual bliss. Try the following techniques while walking, sitting, and lying down on your back in the corpse pose (see Wizard Rest, Week 11).
Belly Breath (CD 1) Put your attention on the gentle up-and-down movement of your stomach. Do not think about your belly moving, simply feel, feel, feel it move. This will ground you. When you feel sleepy or need more energy to concentrate, breathe deeper by filling your belly up like a beach ball on every inhalation.
Alternate Nostril Breath (Explained on CD 1) Energy Breath (CD 2) On every exhalation, simply relax your energy down into the stomach or the root chakra. With every in-breath, breathe in more love-energy up into the heart chakra. You can increase the depth of your breath by 5-20% if you like, but be careful not to shift the emphasis onto the physical level. The objective is to shift from breath to energy, then to light.
Conscious Breath (CD 2) Follow the movement of the breath with your deep inward attention. When you connect the inhalation to the exhalation, and the exhalation to the inhalation, you build a bridge between the inner breath (the prana/kundalini) and the outer breath (the respiratory system). Blissful? Yes!
Kundalini Breathing (CD 3) Bring your attention to the inner movement of your breath as it moves up and down your body. At first, the range of motion might be from the bottom of your feet up to the belly. As you become more relaxed and focused, allow your attention to gradually move up to the heart chakra. Your attention might then range from the belly to the heart.
When you are very focused in the lower chakras, then you will no longer need to imagine being connected to the inner breath (prana). The kundalini will actually rise with every inhalation.
Now bring the range of your inner attention from the heart to the throat, then from the throat to the nostrils. Finally, as light begins entering your inner vision, focus only on the in- and outflow of the breath through the nostrils. Feel the gentle, subtle sensations of air flowing evenly through both nostrils.
When the light becomes bright, simply let go of the breath and merge with the light. By doing this, you have shifted octaves from breath into prana, then from prana into light.
Bubble Breath (CD 4) With every in-breath, increase the size of your auric bubble. On every exhalation, simply relax into love and peace. Gradually, imagine that your bubble encompasses all your friends, relatives, and especially the people with whom there exists tension. Finally, let your bubble encompass the whole universe and all your multidimensional realities (Week 12). This technique is powerful only if you have mastered Kundalini Breathing.
One Holy Breath (CD 5, Week 38) In one breath you can alchemize any stuck state into immense ecstasy and clarity.
Listening Breath (CD 5) With all your attention, listen to the sound of your breath. When you enter light, shift your attention from your breath to the music of the spheres (Week 43).
Occasionally, add the affirmation "soham" as a reminder to become one with everything you see, touch, or think about. (See Unity, Week 43.) Soham means "I am That" in Sanskrit, and also approximates the sound actually made by the breath. "So" sounds similar to the inhalation, while "ham" (pronounced 'hum') sounds similar to the exhalation. If you reverse the order, it becomes "hamsa," (pronounced 'humsa') which means swan, or a soul liberated beyond the mind.
The soul is the unchangeable essence of who you are. It is the part of you that hasn't changed since you were born, and will be with you unchanged twenty years from now and forever. Your body and personality will change, but not you the soul. It is immortal and can never be hurt by opening your heart. Your ego may get bruised, but that is not the real You.
Wisdom is your radiance not the truth in your head.
When you give up everything, you discover Everything.
The soul is the Self, the Center. The experience of the soul is in the mind. In the soul you live beyond mental reflections because you are both yourself and everything you see. Within the soul is the whole universe.
When you overanalyze the nature of the soul instead of enjoying and witnessing it (explained in Week 18), energy turns to the lower chakras. When you uplift yourself, you draw up the kundalini into the higher chakras. At the crown chakra you experience the soul in its pure state beyond all dualities.
Pause and contemplate the power of these ideas. Divine contemplation* is placing your awareness on the frequency of one unlimited idea without the mind wandering. In deep contemplation, the idea dissolves into the silence of the soul. From this state, listen to your inner voices without talking back, engaging the mind, and losing touch with the present. The voices will become less active but more wise.
Finally, become silence and contemplate your unchangeable essence. Walk through your days feeling connected with everything and every person. Know that your openness will touch everyone, sometimes provoking tremendous fears within people.
As soul, these responses do not diminish your serenity. You simply alchemize people's fears with love. By contemplating the timeless silence of your soul, you will not react to the illusions of everyday life.
*The first two chapters/months of this book are more about contemplation than meditation. The CD for these chapters, on the other hand, has many meditation techniques. (by Anami)
Breathing Techniques
There is tremendous power in breathing techniques that entrain your thought waves to the slow, healing rhythms of natural breathing. This gradually awakens awareness. The reason: a conscious, gentle breath is always grounded in the present moment the place of spiritual power.
Every time your mind follows your breath,
you heal the past by returning to the present.
These techniques are safe from unbalanced activation of the kundalini. They are useless, however, unless the person discovers the Source of breath the person breathing. All good techniques dissolve as you integrate. You become One Holy Breath (Week 38).
Associate every spiritual exercise with bliss. This conditions the mind to look forward to repeating the exercises. You may just be pretending to be blissful in the beginning, but eventually, with every in-breath you will draw the kundalini up into actual bliss. Try the following techniques while walking, sitting, and lying down on your back in the corpse pose (see Wizard Rest, Week 11).
Belly Breath (CD 1) Put your attention on the gentle up-and-down movement of your stomach. Do not think about your belly moving, simply feel, feel, feel it move. This will ground you. When you feel sleepy or need more energy to concentrate, breathe deeper by filling your belly up like a beach ball on every inhalation.
Alternate Nostril Breath (Explained on CD 1) Energy Breath (CD 2) On every exhalation, simply relax your energy down into the stomach or the root chakra. With every in-breath, breathe in more love-energy up into the heart chakra. You can increase the depth of your breath by 5-20% if you like, but be careful not to shift the emphasis onto the physical level. The objective is to shift from breath to energy, then to light.
Conscious Breath (CD 2) Follow the movement of the breath with your deep inward attention. When you connect the inhalation to the exhalation, and the exhalation to the inhalation, you build a bridge between the inner breath (the prana/kundalini) and the outer breath (the respiratory system). Blissful? Yes!
Kundalini Breathing (CD 3) Bring your attention to the inner movement of your breath as it moves up and down your body. At first, the range of motion might be from the bottom of your feet up to the belly. As you become more relaxed and focused, allow your attention to gradually move up to the heart chakra. Your attention might then range from the belly to the heart.
When you are very focused in the lower chakras, then you will no longer need to imagine being connected to the inner breath (prana). The kundalini will actually rise with every inhalation.
Now bring the range of your inner attention from the heart to the throat, then from the throat to the nostrils. Finally, as light begins entering your inner vision, focus only on the in- and outflow of the breath through the nostrils. Feel the gentle, subtle sensations of air flowing evenly through both nostrils.
When the light becomes bright, simply let go of the breath and merge with the light. By doing this, you have shifted octaves from breath into prana, then from prana into light.
Bubble Breath (CD 4) With every in-breath, increase the size of your auric bubble. On every exhalation, simply relax into love and peace. Gradually, imagine that your bubble encompasses all your friends, relatives, and especially the people with whom there exists tension. Finally, let your bubble encompass the whole universe and all your multidimensional realities (Week 12). This technique is powerful only if you have mastered Kundalini Breathing.
One Holy Breath (CD 5, Week 38) In one breath you can alchemize any stuck state into immense ecstasy and clarity.
Listening Breath (CD 5) With all your attention, listen to the sound of your breath. When you enter light, shift your attention from your breath to the music of the spheres (Week 43).
Occasionally, add the affirmation "soham" as a reminder to become one with everything you see, touch, or think about. (See Unity, Week 43.) Soham means "I am That" in Sanskrit, and also approximates the sound actually made by the breath. "So" sounds similar to the inhalation, while "ham" (pronounced 'hum') sounds similar to the exhalation. If you reverse the order, it becomes "hamsa," (pronounced 'humsa') which means swan, or a soul liberated beyond the mind.
Western Techniques
Meditate for Inner Peace
To Meditate for at least 15 minutes in the early morning will bring inner peace and reduce stress.
Upon waking meditate on these positive thoughts
I am a peaceful person,
Try to experience the stillness of when peace of my inner mind
I have a peaceful mind .............I am a peaceful person ............
My mind is filled with peace .............. I radiate peace to the world ...............
I feel the wonderful gentle waves of peace flowing across my mind ..........
As these peaceful thoughts emerge in my mind I feel the stillness and silence envelopes my mind .................
My mind feels light and free from stress ...........
I realize my real inner nature is peace ..........
Peace of mind in my true nature ......
Peaceful thoughts flow through the mind and I feel the self becoming light calm and relaxed .....................
I am a being of light and peace shining like a star .......................
I radiate peace and light to the world .....................
I continue to radiate peace to the world as I fill my mind with peace and love
through this inner peace i feel love for all individuals of this earth
I the peaceful soul,l
I feel at peace with myself,
the stillness of my mind enables me to feel content and complete ............
This is the wonderful journey of inner peace
If you meditate daily you will feel a fresh and new and positive state of mind emerging. It is the best way to improve your self and hence your life.
To meditate is a form of stress management that will allow your mind to experience an oasis of peace and love within the heart and mind.
More Daily meditations to free the mind from stress.
.............................................................................................
Meditate for Inner Peace
To Meditate for at least 15 minutes in the early morning will bring inner peace and reduce stress.
Upon waking meditate on these positive thoughts
I am a peaceful person,
Try to experience the stillness of when peace of my inner mind
I have a peaceful mind .............I am a peaceful person ............
My mind is filled with peace .............. I radiate peace to the world ...............
I feel the wonderful gentle waves of peace flowing across my mind ..........
As these peaceful thoughts emerge in my mind I feel the stillness and silence envelopes my mind .................
My mind feels light and free from stress ...........
I realize my real inner nature is peace ..........
Peace of mind in my true nature ......
Peaceful thoughts flow through the mind and I feel the self becoming light calm and relaxed .....................
I am a being of light and peace shining like a star .......................
I radiate peace and light to the world .....................
I continue to radiate peace to the world as I fill my mind with peace and love
through this inner peace i feel love for all individuals of this earth
I the peaceful soul,l
I feel at peace with myself,
the stillness of my mind enables me to feel content and complete ............
This is the wonderful journey of inner peace
If you meditate daily you will feel a fresh and new and positive state of mind emerging. It is the best way to improve your self and hence your life.
To meditate is a form of stress management that will allow your mind to experience an oasis of peace and love within the heart and mind.
More Daily meditations to free the mind from stress.
.............................................................................................
Learn to Meditate: Christian Meditation
There are many approaches to prayer. Not least because there are many different needs. But the greatest of all our needs acccording to Chrisitinity is to get nearer to Jesus. The most powerful form of prayer for this purpose is arguably Christian meditation.
This article discusses some of the special aspects of Christian meditation
Meditation has a very long history in Christianity and has taken various forms. But to meditate on the Scripture, and not least the gospels, is a kind which has great power. How does the power come about?. From three sources: which work together to bring us closer to God:
1. From the Holy Spirit, of course. But this kind of prayer makes a very special kind of requirement on us and on the Spirit, and that is expressed in terms of
2. Faith. Obviously, the very act of prayer, any prayer, involves some kind of faith. But the degree of faith which this form of prayer demands can be quite different than in other forms of prayer.
3 Consistency. To really get into this kind of prayer one needs a daily commitment which is kept consistently. It is often said that "grace builds on nature" and that is very true. In this case it is true because we need to become habitually open to the way in which the Spirit works within us. We shall not achieve that unless we become habitual in our habits of prayer.
This kind of meditation should not be confused in any ways with types derived from Eastern religions, such as Hinduism. It is quite different and essentially Christian. Very often it is associated with Ignatius of Loyola because, after his conversion, he developed a particularly clear method of approach.
This involves reading Scripture in a particular way. At its essence is explicitly allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal to us the nature and meaning of what, after all, he himself has written over the centuries.
For a Christian, the most important part of Scripture is the New Testament. While, we can meditate on the Old Testament, the former is, at least, the best place to start. Sometimes we meditate on the gospels; sometimes on the letters or Acts or Revelations. In the latter cases the approach is somewhat different in important respects to meditating on the gospels. However, it is meditation on the gospels which can bring us repeatedly face-to-face with Jesus in real and dynamic ways.
The reality of meeting with Jesus in this way is a principle benefit. But it must not be either over-emphasised nor under-emphasised. The first is a danger because the actual experience of meditation will vary considerably from day-to-day or as between prayer periods on the same day. Few people with considerable experience in meditation would deny the reality of this meeting.
But some with limited experience may tend to overstress these encounters. They get carried away with what the Holy Spirit is providing for them over a particular period of time. But the Spirit deals with us in very different ways at different times.
On the other hand, these experiences are real, of great value and bring many blessings and should not be ignored.
Moreover, we need to allow the Spirit to balance the graces he is giving us. This requires mixing meditation periods on the gospels with other periods on, say, the letters of the New Testament, or the Psalms are a good source for beginning to meditate on the Old Testament.
One of the greatest benefits which a Christian has is his relationship with God. For example, Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 2:12 that we have not received the spirit of the world, but we have received the Spirit who is from God. The reason for this is so that we may understand what God has freely given us.
When we do understand that, we understand that he needs to be given both the freedom and opportunity to work through us to the maximum possible degree. Only in that way shall we continue in the process of becoming like Jesus. That, after all, is what our lives are about.
...........................................................................................
There are many approaches to prayer. Not least because there are many different needs. But the greatest of all our needs acccording to Chrisitinity is to get nearer to Jesus. The most powerful form of prayer for this purpose is arguably Christian meditation.
This article discusses some of the special aspects of Christian meditation
Meditation has a very long history in Christianity and has taken various forms. But to meditate on the Scripture, and not least the gospels, is a kind which has great power. How does the power come about?. From three sources: which work together to bring us closer to God:
1. From the Holy Spirit, of course. But this kind of prayer makes a very special kind of requirement on us and on the Spirit, and that is expressed in terms of
2. Faith. Obviously, the very act of prayer, any prayer, involves some kind of faith. But the degree of faith which this form of prayer demands can be quite different than in other forms of prayer.
3 Consistency. To really get into this kind of prayer one needs a daily commitment which is kept consistently. It is often said that "grace builds on nature" and that is very true. In this case it is true because we need to become habitually open to the way in which the Spirit works within us. We shall not achieve that unless we become habitual in our habits of prayer.
This kind of meditation should not be confused in any ways with types derived from Eastern religions, such as Hinduism. It is quite different and essentially Christian. Very often it is associated with Ignatius of Loyola because, after his conversion, he developed a particularly clear method of approach.
This involves reading Scripture in a particular way. At its essence is explicitly allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal to us the nature and meaning of what, after all, he himself has written over the centuries.
For a Christian, the most important part of Scripture is the New Testament. While, we can meditate on the Old Testament, the former is, at least, the best place to start. Sometimes we meditate on the gospels; sometimes on the letters or Acts or Revelations. In the latter cases the approach is somewhat different in important respects to meditating on the gospels. However, it is meditation on the gospels which can bring us repeatedly face-to-face with Jesus in real and dynamic ways.
The reality of meeting with Jesus in this way is a principle benefit. But it must not be either over-emphasised nor under-emphasised. The first is a danger because the actual experience of meditation will vary considerably from day-to-day or as between prayer periods on the same day. Few people with considerable experience in meditation would deny the reality of this meeting.
But some with limited experience may tend to overstress these encounters. They get carried away with what the Holy Spirit is providing for them over a particular period of time. But the Spirit deals with us in very different ways at different times.
On the other hand, these experiences are real, of great value and bring many blessings and should not be ignored.
Moreover, we need to allow the Spirit to balance the graces he is giving us. This requires mixing meditation periods on the gospels with other periods on, say, the letters of the New Testament, or the Psalms are a good source for beginning to meditate on the Old Testament.
One of the greatest benefits which a Christian has is his relationship with God. For example, Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 2:12 that we have not received the spirit of the world, but we have received the Spirit who is from God. The reason for this is so that we may understand what God has freely given us.
When we do understand that, we understand that he needs to be given both the freedom and opportunity to work through us to the maximum possible degree. Only in that way shall we continue in the process of becoming like Jesus. That, after all, is what our lives are about.
...........................................................................................
Learn to meditate with the Pink Bubble Meditation Technique
This mediation is simple and effective.
Gradually relax deeper and deeper.
Imagine something that you would like to manifest. Imagine that is already happened.
Picture it as clearly as possibly in your mind.
Now in your mind’s eye surround your fantasy with a pink bubble; put your goal inside the bubble.
The third step is to let go of your bubble and imagine it floating off into the universe, still containing your vision.
This symbolizes that you are emotionally ‘letting go” of it.
Now it’s free to float around the universe, attracting and gathering energy for it’s manifestation.
Creative Visualization by Shakti Gawain 1978
...................................................................
This mediation is simple and effective.
Gradually relax deeper and deeper.
Imagine something that you would like to manifest. Imagine that is already happened.
Picture it as clearly as possibly in your mind.
Now in your mind’s eye surround your fantasy with a pink bubble; put your goal inside the bubble.
The third step is to let go of your bubble and imagine it floating off into the universe, still containing your vision.
This symbolizes that you are emotionally ‘letting go” of it.
Now it’s free to float around the universe, attracting and gathering energy for it’s manifestation.
Creative Visualization by Shakti Gawain 1978
...................................................................
Meditate on the Third Eye
Meditate to open the third eye
Sit in a comfortable position
And feel the energy of your mind,
Focusing into a light
And feel this light become a focus diamond
And now feel that this diamond of light
Starts to sparkle within
And I feel that this diamond of light is within me
I become the being of light,
Like a sparkling diamond
And I realize this diamond of life
Is who I really am
And I realize that I am a soul
And I realize that the soul is located in the middle of the forehead
And this is the minds eye
The eye of the soul
And I feel myself as a diamond of light
Waking up to realize that I am a being of light
Eternal light
And I am now awakening my third eye
The third eye of the soul dos being opened
And it radiates light
And I radiate that light to the world
I am a being of light
I’m reawakening, and beginning to shine
.......................................................................................................
Meditate to open the third eye
Sit in a comfortable position
And feel the energy of your mind,
Focusing into a light
And feel this light become a focus diamond
And now feel that this diamond of light
Starts to sparkle within
And I feel that this diamond of light is within me
I become the being of light,
Like a sparkling diamond
And I realize this diamond of life
Is who I really am
And I realize that I am a soul
And I realize that the soul is located in the middle of the forehead
And this is the minds eye
The eye of the soul
And I feel myself as a diamond of light
Waking up to realize that I am a being of light
Eternal light
And I am now awakening my third eye
The third eye of the soul dos being opened
And it radiates light
And I radiate that light to the world
I am a being of light
I’m reawakening, and beginning to shine
.......................................................................................................
Meditate with Hope
DESIDERATA
Go placidly amid the noise and haste.
And remember what peace there ay be in silence.
As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all
persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly, and listen to others,
even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations
to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become
vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser
persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let not this blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals and everywhere
life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love; for on the face of all aridity
and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass,
Take kindly to counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering
the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune,
But do not distress yourself with imaginings, many fears are
born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees or stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is
unfolding as it should.
Therefore, be at peace with
God, whatever you conceive him to be,
And whatever your labours and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams
It is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful, strive to be happy.
Some times it helps to create your own meditation on something that is meaningful or inspiring to you. The above poem has been used by Hope to help her to meditate. Hope says that meditating on this poem has helped her in finding inner-peace and direction on her path through life
DESIDERATA
Go placidly amid the noise and haste.
And remember what peace there ay be in silence.
As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all
persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly, and listen to others,
even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations
to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become
vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser
persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let not this blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals and everywhere
life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love; for on the face of all aridity
and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass,
Take kindly to counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering
the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune,
But do not distress yourself with imaginings, many fears are
born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees or stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is
unfolding as it should.
Therefore, be at peace with
God, whatever you conceive him to be,
And whatever your labours and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams
It is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful, strive to be happy.
Some times it helps to create your own meditation on something that is meaningful or inspiring to you. The above poem has been used by Hope to help her to meditate. Hope says that meditating on this poem has helped her in finding inner-peace and direction on her path through life
Waves of light meditation
Begin by finding a quiet spot where you will not be disturbed.
Take the phone off the hook.
Turn off your mobile phone, radio, and television, as well as any unnecessary electrical equipment in the area immediately surrounding where you will be meditating.
Sit or lay down in a comfortable position. This could be on the floor, cross legged with back straight and hands resting on knees, palms facing upward and thumb and first finger held together in the traditional meditation position (you can rest against a wall if you like), or in an arm chair with back straight, feet flat on the ground, and hands resting on thighs with palms flat. If you choose to lay down, this can be either on the ground with feet shoulder width apart, back straight and hands resting gently to the sides, or on a bed in the same position.
Close your eyes. Take a deep breath, hold it in and tense up every muscle you can. Exhale and release the tension. Repeat this twice more, making three breath/tensions in total.
Visualize your muscles becoming relaxed and saturated with a brilliant, white light. Start at your toes and work your way up to the top of your head, pay particular attention to the shoulders, jaw and facial area, and any other area that may be causing you particular concern. All the while taking gentle, deep breaths.
If you hear sounds such as cars passing by, people talking, dogs barking etc. Just let these sounds pass over you. Do not judge these sounds, simply allow them to occur and fade away, all the while taking gentle deep breaths.
When you feel sufficiently relaxed, visualize the white light that now soaks your body starting to form waves that travel from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. Visualize these waves starting very small and gradually building in intensity, to a level that you feel comfortable with.
Visualize the waves washing away any negative thoughts or negative energies, these thoughts or energies can be visualized as black clouds which are engulfed by the white-light, and gradually disappear, ‘washed’ clean by the waves of healing energy.
When you feel sufficiently ‘cleansed’ by the white light waves, visualize them gradually decreasing in intensity, until once again the white light is as calm as the surface of a pond.
When you feel that the meditation has finished, gradually and gently bring you attention back to your surroundings, and slowly open your eyes. Personally I like to do a few stretches after meditation and just “chillax” for a few minutes before moving on with day to day things.
Peace be with you.
Begin by finding a quiet spot where you will not be disturbed.
Take the phone off the hook.
Turn off your mobile phone, radio, and television, as well as any unnecessary electrical equipment in the area immediately surrounding where you will be meditating.
Sit or lay down in a comfortable position. This could be on the floor, cross legged with back straight and hands resting on knees, palms facing upward and thumb and first finger held together in the traditional meditation position (you can rest against a wall if you like), or in an arm chair with back straight, feet flat on the ground, and hands resting on thighs with palms flat. If you choose to lay down, this can be either on the ground with feet shoulder width apart, back straight and hands resting gently to the sides, or on a bed in the same position.
Close your eyes. Take a deep breath, hold it in and tense up every muscle you can. Exhale and release the tension. Repeat this twice more, making three breath/tensions in total.
Visualize your muscles becoming relaxed and saturated with a brilliant, white light. Start at your toes and work your way up to the top of your head, pay particular attention to the shoulders, jaw and facial area, and any other area that may be causing you particular concern. All the while taking gentle, deep breaths.
If you hear sounds such as cars passing by, people talking, dogs barking etc. Just let these sounds pass over you. Do not judge these sounds, simply allow them to occur and fade away, all the while taking gentle deep breaths.
When you feel sufficiently relaxed, visualize the white light that now soaks your body starting to form waves that travel from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. Visualize these waves starting very small and gradually building in intensity, to a level that you feel comfortable with.
Visualize the waves washing away any negative thoughts or negative energies, these thoughts or energies can be visualized as black clouds which are engulfed by the white-light, and gradually disappear, ‘washed’ clean by the waves of healing energy.
When you feel sufficiently ‘cleansed’ by the white light waves, visualize them gradually decreasing in intensity, until once again the white light is as calm as the surface of a pond.
When you feel that the meditation has finished, gradually and gently bring you attention back to your surroundings, and slowly open your eyes. Personally I like to do a few stretches after meditation and just “chillax” for a few minutes before moving on with day to day things.
Peace be with you.
