Meditation

Meditation is the act of changing (usually increasing) your consciousness away from a person's regular thinking state. It has been practiced in nearly all the major cultures of the world and dates back to the earliest civilization. Meditation can be performed for both religious and non religious purposes.

People throughout the ages have been performing meditation for a number of reasons. Some examples of these are:

• The pursuit of god
• Attaining a higher level of understand and clarity of events or life
• Increasing compassion or kindness
• Increasing concentration or creativity
• Simply relaxation and focus

The art of meditation can be found in a number of ancient texts such as the Hindu Vedas and the Hebrew bible. The use of repetitive chants or rhythmic drum beat was thought to send people into a trance which elevated them to a higher level of thought and clarity.

Types of Meditation

Many religions practice meditating in order to expand their understanding or seek Divine guidance. A number of secular meditation practices are also available for people that seek the physical and psychological benefits of the exercise.

Meditation courses or classes can be found which use meditation in a number of ways to provide benefits such as:

• Muscle relaxation - By using meditation techniques individuals are able to relax their muscles which can in turn reduce their anxiety, stress and stress related diseases
• Pain Relief - Meditation is also used in certain cases to suppress pain without the use of medicine or drugs

If you would like to learn and practice mediation in the comfort of your own home and at your own pace there are number of CDs and self study courses that are available.

Thing to Consider Before Starting Meditation

Before starting a class or on your own it useful to consider whether:

• The instructor or practitioner is associated with a reputable group such as the Australian Mediation Association
• Any self study course or CD is made by a know meditation expert or company