Michael

I’m sure everyone has heard of the benefits of meditation. Here are a few links if you are interested:

1. Benefits of Meditation
2. Meditation – Benefits of Meditation @ ABC-of-Yoga (This article actually lists increased happiness as one of the benefits)
3. Psychology Today – The Benefits of Meditation
4. Benefits of Meditation (another link that discusses inner joy or happiness)

There are literally thousands of more links to peruse. I recommend reading some if you do not really know about meditation. But, I digress a little. I actually would like to discuss another benefit of meditation which helps in your pursuit of happiness.

When you meditate, a great benefit is that it eventually decreases or stills the thoughts in your mind. When your mind is still and clear, you don’t produce any negative thoughts. This is much easier to do than focusing on stopping negative thoughts. That technique does not work. It only increases your attention on them. That’s why it is better to focus on something positive to actually turn your mind away from negativity. But, a regular practice of meditation will help to decrease the frequency of negative thoughts and eventually increase your state of happiness.

Here is a very simple but effective meditation technique:

1. Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed for 15 or 20 minutes.
2. Sit in a comfortable chair with your feet on the ground and your arms relaxed, either on your legs or the arms of the chair.
3. Close your eyes.
4. Simply watch your breath go in and go out.
5. You will notice, especially if you haven’t meditated regularly, that your mind will be flooded with thoughts. Some will distract you from watching your breath.
6. When you realize you have been distracted, simply and without force, re-focus on your breath. No need to judge yourself. It’s part of the practice.
7. Initially meditate for about 15 minutes, gradually increasing to 20. You can start once a day and work your way up to twice a day.
8. Don’t lay down as the purpose of this exercise is to be relaxed and aware but not unconscious.

Over a period of time, you will be amazed at the inner transformation that occurs. Just like any other practice, give yourself a few weeks or months to get into the habit.

Have a great day!

Michael