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| Chance and I meditating last year in Vancouver |
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| Symbol for Om |
So, I'm going to break this down in the most simple way, bare with me.
Lets start with the breath and world Om or (AUM). Breath is THE most important thing in meditation... in fact it's everything. So to kick it off, I start with 3 Om (s). Why? This fundamental mantra is super soothing and of corse is not random in its sound or symbol. The sound and the symbol represent the 4 states of being. The fist sound in AUM, is "A" which is the first stage of awakening. It is the first sound and the most open. The second is 'U" which represents the dream state or the in between state. The next is "M" which represents the deep sleep state. It is the the closing of the mouth and end of the breath. The final stage of the AUM is the silence after or the pause in the breath. This is when the consciousness is in perfect bliss and harmony (in theory). This is what we aim to achieve with meditation- stillness and harmony of the mind.
The Om is a complete circle; the vibration represents the beginning and the end which is everything. Breath is life and so this vibration is alive and when done mindfully, can be very healing. Trying to describe Om is like trying to describe love, it is complex and illusive and yet very basic. It is the base of many doctrines in many cultures and religions, but for the purpose of a five minute meditation, it is a mindful breath. Sounds kind of major, but it's pretty simple. It's really hard not to be present when you're throwing an Om out there.
***On a side note, though the symbol Om is used in many cultures as a religious symbol, the action in meditation is not a religious one, and does not interfere with religion, but rather works in unison with religion. To be mindful while praying is pretty powerful stuff. This is also why Yoga is so effective. It is mindful exercise as it focuses so much on the breath. Yoga does not take the place of meditation, just as meditation does not take the place of religion , but they complement each other when used together.***
So it's nice to start off with 3 Om(s) to kind of jump start you into to the mind set of meditation and put you into the spirit of things. Next, I set a quick intention... (like, I strive for peace, wisdom or strength...") then, sit on a pillow or lay back but get into a position where you can stay still for five minutes. Palms up, take some deep breaths while listening to the sound of your breath. If your mind wanders or even races, don't panic or be mad at yourself, just go back to listening to the breath. If the same things keep popping up in your head just acknowledge them and return your mind to the breath. I set an alarm on my iPhone for Just five minutes, and then I like to end with 3 Om(s), a little prayer, and a namaste (I bow to you) in gratitude for God, myself and the world around me. It's pretty easy, you can do it anywhere, and can make more difference in your life than Spanx.
A few other things I like to use that kind of make it fun and effective for me are the accessories.... it's always about the accessories! They are NOT necessary at all but can help get you in the mood to chill.
I love these candles! Both were given by friends and I use them everyday. I light them right before I meditate and they smell so good and make me feel so good.
I love these meditation rocks. Mine were given to me by a healer, but he found them on the beach. So, I found some on the beach too and gave them to my husband to meditate. Just look for some smooth rocks to sit in your palms to keep you present.... so not necessary but nice.
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| Madison Ave. HeadPhones |
Just remember, that breathing is the only thing you really need to meditate. SO, give it a try if you haven't already and let me know what you think. This is something that has truly changed my life.
xo,
Katy
