Learn to Meditate
Introduction
Meditation is a practice which has developed over many thousands of years. Meditation has played, and continues to play, an important role in the cultivation of spiritual energies in the lives of many individuals and nations. Through the practice of meditation we awaken to the spirit which is the essence of our being.
This
book has been created to provide you with safe and simple techniques for
learning and experiencing concentration, relaxation and meditation. I
will also present a solid basis of information so that you will understand
the 'how and why' of the art of meditation which begins in learning concentration
and focusing exercises.
The intensity, energy and commitment required for such an undertaking
is tremendous, as are the powers and forces which are accessed and unleashed
during the meditation process. The dormant potential within each of us
is both unimaginable and, all too often, unexplored.
Ideally, due to the immensity of this journey of discovery, meditation
should be studied and practiced under the guidance of a genuine spiritual
teacher. A true spiritual teacher can oversee our spiritual growth, steering
us clear of potential pitfalls and guiding us towards the supreme goal
of existence–the awareness and embodiment of the fount of existence.
It is said that when a student is ready, the teacher appears.
A
walk on the beach, a hike through the woods, listening and relaxing
to the sounds of nature, gardening, helping others, exercising, writing,
painting, creating: all of these activities prepare us for experiencing
meditation.
Meditation is communion with the source of life. Many of us have lost
or never even felt this connection. In reconnecting with our source,
we become conscious of the miracle of life, happening every moment within
and around us.
Our conscious effort towards this awareness of our deepest depths is
meditation. Theories and ideas cannot replace experience. Touching our
source requires patience, practice and determination. Our persistent
effort will assuredly bring the results we seek: doubt will be replaced
by confidence, questions by knowledge and thought by action. These changes
require of us an invitation to newness and the courage to let go of
all that which binds and limits our consciousness.
Throughout this book there are exercises designed to aid you in learning
how to focus, relax and meditate. To experience meditation you must
do more than read. Try all of the exercises as they appear during your
reading. Note which ones work best for you and from those which you
prefer, create your own daily meditation program. Developing a daily
meditation practice is the effort necessary to experience deeper and
higher realms of being and awareness. Meditation, as with anything,
is learned by regular practice; that is why there are specific exercises
for you to do while reading. These exercises are the essence of this
work. Please do them.