meditation-277889_960_720Meditation is among the oldest forms of self-enlightenment, dating back thousands of years. Even today, it’s practiced by tens of millions of people throughout the world. If you’re thinking about meditating, however, you should follow these tips for an easier and more productive session.

Maintain a Positive Mindset

Meditation refers to a broad range of practices that are designed to reduce stress, increase energy, and develop a greater love, patience and compassion for others. Therefore, it’s essential that you maintain a positive mindset throughout the process. If you are stressed about work, finances or a relationship, it may negatively impact your meditation sessions. Learn to block out these negative thoughts while meditating, focusing on your inner chakra instead.

Meditate in a Distraction-Free Environment

It’s difficult to mediate when you’re constantly being distracted by outside elements. Whether it’s the television, radio, phone, etc., these things can make it difficult to concentrate, reducing the effectiveness of your sessions. So if you’re planning to meditate, find a quiet, distraction-free environment. Some people prefer to mediate at night for this very reason, as there’s fewer distractions during the night as opposed to the day.

Pre-Meditation Stretching

Many experts recommend performing a light stretching exercise before you meditate. The purpose of this is to improve flexibility and stimulate blood flow throughout the body. You don’t have to spend half an hour stretching, but rather spend a couple of minutes tilting your body forwards, backwards and from side to side.

Control Your Breathing

The secret to a productive meditation session lies in the breathing technique. Meditation is all about relaxing the body and mind — something that’s directly impacted by breathing. When meditating, take slow, deep breaths. This will slow your heart rate while allowing your body to relax. The great thing about deep-breathing exercises such as this is that you can perform them virtually anywhere, anytime.

Stimulate Your Senses

Contrary to what some people may believe, you don’t necessarily have to block out your surrounding environment when meditating. In fact, you can actually use your environment to your advantage by allowing it to further relax your body and mind. Burning scented candles or incense, for instance, may create a pleasing aroma that helps you relax. You can also play some soothing music, such as nature sounds, to enhance your meditation sessions and promote greater relaxation.

Photo Credit ECowa

Join Deepak Chopra in this Soul of Healing Meditation below.  Deepak is inspires and educates us in the field of mind-body medicine.  He has written several books some of which are New York Times Best Sellers.  Deepak also has some wonderful meditation audios.

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