Meditation

"The lower self can find peace only as it merges into and becomes a reflection of the higher" N. Sri Ram.

The Monkey Mind

It's been called the 'Monkey Mind'. It is that stream of consciousness which keeps flitting from one thing to another like a monkey jumping from branch to branch. Even when we concentrate the mind drifts off to fanta­size about something we are going to do or some unresolved problem.

But you have the power to stop the antics of this monkey mind and achieve the 'still' mind, which is essential for anyone who is interested in the development of a spiritual nature. Meditation is the method by which this control can be exercised.

An Inner Center of Peace

Many people today are using meditation to bring greater clarity of mind and quiet strength into their lives.

But true meditation is a spiritual journey to the inner center of our being. With consciousness focused on this center of stillness we can release the power of our true spiritual nature.

But most of us, engrossed in the activities and self-centered endeavors of everyday life in the physical world, shut out our spiritual nature and the light which flows through it from the One Energy Source. It is natural law that our attachments and our constant 'busyness', our fears, desires, habits, doubts and judgments severely limit the amount of power that flows through us.

By meditation we can open the door to that spiritual level of con­sciousness, which is our deepest natural state. To experience this, our minds must stop being busy. This is difficult for us because it is really doing 'nothing' - it is just being what we are.

The Practice of Meditation

Although all individuals find their own way of meditating, certain proce­dures have been found necessary for success in achieving the necessary preliminary concentration and ultimately the 'emptying' of the mind.

1. Meditate regularly at the same time each day in a private place.
2. Sit in the lotus position or erect in a chair.
3. Relax the whole body using deep diaphragm breathing.
4. Release emotional tension and slow down the thinking process.
5. Turn inwards to the silence, throwing out thought whenever it intrudes.
6. After 15-30 minutes quietly return to normal consciousness.