"The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind." -- Caroline Myss
How often are you not analyzing, judging or worrying about something? For most of us, it's pretty rare. Meditation is the practice of 'taking a break' from your thoughts and feelings. While it may seem foreign to Medito, it is a natural human experience. As fetuses and newborns, we spent most of our time in a quiet space. Our first moments of life were of being and not doing. On some level, we all crave what we experienced as we initiated the journey of life.
I have meditated since I was maybe 10 years old. I have found that meditation is what has gotten me through the toughest challenges of my life, including medical school and residency. When you are in a state of sleep deprivation and high stress, every little thing can be irritating. It's also been my greatest tool against stress and worry. Meditation has helped me 'take the edge off of life', stop 'sweating the small stuff', and not overreact. When I meditate regularly, I am naturally more present, and life feels more meaningful for me.
Thousands of years ago, before technology, humans gazed at the stars and were one with the quiet of the forest. Today, every moment is filled with bright screens and loud sounds cluttering our minds. Add the stress of long work hours, and hectic schedules, leaving no opportunity to rest. Meditation can provide you with a short period of rest from the endless thoughts. Here are the basics:

The Space
- Find a quiet place in your home to designate as your 'meditation space'. It can be as simple as a corner, and only needs to be enough room to comfortably sit on the ground or in a chair.
- Wear loose and stretchy clothing that makes it easy to sit for a period of time. Keep the room temperature moderate, not too warm or too cold.
- If you dare to be creative, add a cushion, blanket, soft lighting, and maybe some pictures or words describing what you want to bring into your life. Make this meditation space your soul's home.
The Posture
- Sit; do not lie down, as it is too easy to fall asleep. You may lean against a wall if you like.
- Keep your spine straight, and sit cross-legged, with your heels under your bum, or on a chair.
- The shoulders, neck and jaw relaxed, and your tongue lightly touches your upper palate.
- Eyes can be closed or half closed.
The Process: Pick one of these as your focus for 30-90 days, and schedule a time of 5 to 15 minutes to meditate either daily, weekly or whenever you can.
- Pay attention to your breath. Feel air expand your belly as you inhale, and feel your belly flatten as you exhale. OR
- Stare at an object. Use the flame of a candle as your point of focus. Make sure the flame of the candle is at eye level, about 2 feet (60cm) away from you. Keep your eyes half closed, and gently gaze at it. OR
- Listen to a guided meditation or guided imagery CD. The recording usually consists of a soft voice gently instructing you to relax. OR
- Repeat a mantra that means something to you. "So Hum" is Sanskrit for "I Am". Repeat this, or any other words that have a special meaning to you, as you inhale and exhale.
While there are many other types of meditation, these are some of the easiest to start with. Feel free to start with others if you feel more comfortable with a certain style. Meditation classes are offered everywhere these days, check out Insight Meditation Society, or The Art of Living. You may want to check out of the many apps like Omvana or Deepak Chopra's Ananda, which allow you to customize your guided Medito.
You can't meditate incorrectly. Similar to art or dance, you will have your own expression through meditation. It is a creative experience unique to the individual participating in it, and for that reason, has individual results. Some find that meditation is energizing, while others find it relaxing. Over 3,000 studies have found numerous physical and emotional benefits. Find the right type of meditation for you, and commit to a regular practice. Over time, you will reap the reward, and re-experience your quiet within.