One of the most essential requisites for meditation is that one makes oneself as comfortable as possible. Without this the body will always be drawing us back to remind us that it is not comfortable and the subsequent interest that we will find in this will be so distracting that meditating becomes an uphill struggle!
The space we choose for meditating needs to reflect the state we are intending - that is - clear mind, clear space - clear thought clean space - still mind, no distracting clocks, loud sounds or music and if possible away from family, noisy kids etc. Tall order maybe for householders, though individuals might not have these distractions.
It can be helpful to place a sign on the door of the room or informing others that you are going to take 'quiet time'.
Some other things you can do in order to help create a meditation space:
- Designate a specific and manageable time slot for the practice - a regular time every day creates a positive routine both for yourself and others (to recognise that is YOUR time!) and also to make the mind get 'into the habit'.
- Make it realistic - otherwise like New Year's resolutions it will disappear with a couple of weeks - if you are lucky!
- Find a room, spot in the garden, or maybe on your favourite lake, river or seashore and dedicate it to the practice. A place where you know you will not be disturbed is best - so one's own property is often the best place to start.
- If you feel you would like to light an incense stick or candle that helps create an atmosphere, then do so. The candle can be useful as a meditation technique.
- Make sure the light in the room is not too bright as this may become a distraction when endeavouring to concentrate.
- A blanket or meditation shawl helps maintain body heat, which can drop considerably whilst in meditation.
- You may wish to have an altar, table or area that is able to contain special objects or items that hold significance for you and your commitment to meditate. Such ritual presentation may be helpful in focusing on the object or purpose of meditation.
- Some appropriate music may also help set the environment and mood.
- A comfortable sitting stool, cushion or position so that the meditating time is undisturbed through discomfort.
Once a space has been designated for the purpose of meditation, it is a good idea to allow this to remain 'sacred space', within the constraints available. For beginners this is useful to maintain the impetus of regular commitment and focus.
As meditation becomes more of a regular habit and the meditator becomes more adept, a meditation space can be anywhere that is appropriate at any time. For the accomplished meditator the inner and outer distractions become the tools of the meditation experience, as awareness grows of the reality that arises from the meditation experience.
Each one of us has our own way and means to creating our own sacred meditation space. Our resources and circumstances will dictate these things. There is really no right or wrong way to enter meditation, save the complete dedication, willingness and intention to know the Self through contemplation, observation, awareness, concentration and acceptance of how we are in this moment - with all the flaws and imperfections that make us who we are.
This acceptance goes a long way in creating a truly meditative space that then can begin to fill....
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Master of Kirtan chant
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Master of the Bamboo Flute
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Master of Meditation
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