Midweek Meditation (part 1)

Why is there a picture of the universe on a blog for meditation? Good question. The answer is simple. When we become adept in our meditation practice we become one with the universe and everything in it. I know it sounds unbeleivable but believe it. The absolute knowledge is so profound that it almost defies description. We have all read or heard about the benefits of meditation but most of us put it in the back burner of our minds as something to maybe try at a later date, but there really is no time like the present. In fact only the present time matters!

Today I will teach you a standing meditation. The description of it may be a little long winded but please persevere as the benefits are quite amazing. This is a Qigong (chi kong) practice and has been used in the far east since ancient times.

The following practise is a 3 stage process. Today I will explain stage one and in two weeks I will explain the second stage and the third stage two weeks after that.

It is important to practise daily to achieve results. We can all find 5 minutes a day so there is no excuse not to.

Abdominal Breathing.

1. Stand in a quiet place, feet fairly close together and place your hands one on top of the other, about 3 inches below your naval. Open your mouth slightly.

2. Gently but firmly press into your abdomen with both palms for a count of 6. Hold there for two counts. Release gently and smoothly for a count of 6. Your abdomen should rise with this movement. Hold for a count of two. This is pressing, holding, releasing, holding, is one unit.

It is very important not to breath in while pressing in. This is a common error and will stop you from breathing abdominally. If you find this difficult then try not to think about your breathing, just the movements of your hands, pressing, holding, releasing, holding. Your breathing will automatically adjust itself.

3. Repeat this practise for about 10 complete units, gently focussing on the rising and falling of your abdomen.

4. Drop your arms to your sides, palms facing backward and close your eyes if they aren't already closed.

5. Enjoy this meditative state for about 5 minutes. You may find your body swaying a little, and that's ok.

6. After 5 minutes, or what you perceive to be 5 minutes, gently rub your palms together until warm and dab your eyes as you open them. Take a moment to reflect how you feel.

Try to do this for 5 minutes in the morning and 5 minutes at night.

I have taught this meditation to many of my massage clients and the results they have include better sleep patterns, less anxiety, clearer thinking process, less stress, and more positive thinking.

If you are unsure of any of the instructions or if you have any questions please contact me.