Friday, August 15, 2008

Breath...


On and off for the past three years (approx) I have practiced meditation.

I’ve found it most beneficial especially in stressful times. I first began after advice from a counselor, and although it seemed like a waste of time in today’s fast paced life style, I gave it a shot. I really noticed a change. Not when I was practicing regularly, but rather when I stopped. All the stresses and Anxiety I thought I was over began to return.

I still feel stressed out a lot of the time but I know the more I practice the better I feel: More energized, I drink less booze, have a more positive outlook on relationships, self and life in general.

I have found mindfulness of breath to be the most adaptable and useful form of meditation I have tried. There are plenty of books available on meditation, but one of the simplest instructions I have come across was from one of my favorite artists Mike Giant on his blog.
From Mike Giants Blog:

  • "Concentrate on your breath. Just try it. As you breathe in, say "breathing in" in your mind. As you breathe out, say "breathing out". Really try to feel the air moving in and out of your body. In, out. In, out. As thoughts arise, note them, and try to let them go. For example, if you notice that you're thinking about something that happened in the past, note the thought as "the past" and go back to your breath. As thoughts arise, note them and let them go, and return to the breath. Simple as that.
    During your practice, it's important that you don't get judgmental about your thoughts. When you notice that you've been distracted, don't allow your mind to chastise your lack of attention. Sometimes you'll get lost in a thought process for a long time. Don't trip. Just smile, relax, and go back to your breath.
    Try it when you're drawing, or sitting on the bus, or eating a burrito. Try it when you're having sex, or riding your bike, or taking a shit. For the best results, try it in a quiet comfortable place with your eyes closed for about 40 minutes. It won't kill you. You'll see."

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