How to study meditation

Throughout the day, our minds are subjected to innumerable stresses from not only our jobs, but our family, relationships and worries about the past and future. Over time, this can be detrimental and lead to diseases and imbalances of the body. Meditation is a remedy that can combat such imbalances and create everlasting peace in one's life. Meditation has been studied for thousands of years and has been used to calm the mind, connect to the spirit and open the mind to higher levels of consciousness. Moreover, studying meditation may lead to a life of wisdom, health and overall balance.

Things You'll Need

• Meditation center
• Meditation class
• Meditation table
• Cushions
• Chairs

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Instructions

• 1

  Have pure intentions. When practiced properly, meditation is a way of communing with the soul. Do not approach meditation as a means to gain something, although the greatest can certainly be gained. You must first give up everything in order to achieve this state. This is the universal paradox. Ask yourself why you want to study meditation. If it is to gain something materialistic, then you do not have the purest intentions.

• 2

  Find a meditation center. Read fliers posted on bulletin boards at spiritual bookstores, organic grocery stores, health spas, fitness centers and yoga studios in your area. Hindu and Buddhist temples, churches and monasteries are also useful places to check for meditation classes as well. Go to the Meetup website and type "Meditation" into the search bar. Enter your zip code and click "Search" to bring up a list of meditation events in your area.

• 3

  Inquire about meditation classes. Choose a class that fits with your time and schedule. Talk with a teacher or someone at the front desk and ask questions about the type of classes that are offered. Explain your level of experience and what you are interested in learning. Some classes are with a group and others are done in private. A majority of basic classes are free or run on a donation basis such as the international Vipassana Meditation. Prices depend on the teacher, quality and length of the course.

• 4

  Prepare for class. Eat a light meal three hours before class. Wash your body and wear a set of clean, comfortable and loose fitting clothing. An all white outfit is preferable. During meditation you are representing your higher self and it is imperative for you to respect it. Take your time when preparing for class and arriving to the location. Resist the urge to rush. This can cause anxiety and unnecessary stress when trying to meditate.

• 5

  Attend class. Be respectful and take off your shoes at the entrance. Help set up chairs, desks and other materials if you arrive early. Turn off your cell phone before the start of class. Find a posture that is comfortable for you and keep your spine straight. Ask for extra cushions if you are uncomfortable and sit by a window or fan if you are hot. Pay attention to the teacher and listen attentively. Follow the instructions, take a deep breath and relax into the meditation. Quietly leave the room if you must to go to the bathroom or attend to other needs.

• 6

  Analyze how you feel after class. If you feel more relaxed, at peace, euphoric, positive or generally feel much better than before meditating, you should continue attending classes. Meditate at the same class for at least one week and then decide whether or not you want to change classes. If you do not feel better or even feel worse then you should find another meditation class or center.

• 7

  Continue going to your class of choice. Meditate as often as possible if you are enrolled or participating in a long term course. This will allow you to establish a bond with the teachers and fellow students. Go to the Australian Meditation website and take the free online meditation course if you are unable to find a mediation class or teacher in your area.

• 8

  Start a meditation routine at home. Set aside a small, quiet corner of a room that is solely used for meditation and spiritual purposes. Light candles, incense and display fresh flowers to promote a calm environment. Meditate early in the morning and in the evening. Infuse the meditation techniques that you are learning at class into a routine that works best for you. If your meditation is at the same time every day it will eventually become a habit.

• 9

  Continue studying and meditating. Supplement your classes with outside reading material and videos. Attend spiritual lectures, visit retreats and spiritual centers to gain a broader understanding of different techniques. Study a mix of various religions and philosophies to become more open to new ways of thinking. Adopt new meditation techniques into your practice.