FAQ's...

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 I feel this question is the fundamental reason people tend to give up their meditation practice early on, as they seem to believe the mind must be emptied to meditate correctly. It is a huge misconception that thoughts simply cease when practicing, meditation is not the eradicating of mind but merely the noticing of it therefore not becoming weighed down or distracted by non-existent worries, anxieties or delusions. The first piece of advice to somebody struggling to let go of their thoughts is to say ‘DO NOT TRY TO’ this enables space between thoughts to arise, revealing a natural sense of being. As one practices more frequently the awareness of this gap will become longer having an even more peaceful effect on the mind. Certain disciplines or intentions can be put in place prior to meditating which can provide a supportive guided routine enabling a person to settle more calmly. For example having a regular time slot to practice, a comfortable familiar place, affirming a positive experience, writing a journal before and after meditating letting go of any negative thoughts on paper, trying different techniques, joining a group and most importantly being compassionate towards yourself, directing loving kindness and be confident in the knowing that being is ‘NON-DOING’ and no effort is required!

 It is inevitable that every meditation that you participate in either with a group or alone will be completely unique as a contemplation and experience. Not necessarily always being the positive one you may expect. Expectation is a key hindrance to all practices and should be avoided from the outset when deciding to take up a regular practice. As with all new skills we learn it takes diligence and commitment to begin to feel at ease with the chosen pastime, however, with meditation a degree of lightness in approach should be implemented so as not to allow self-criticism to overtake our thoughts. Your attention will definitely wander in the beginning and is the same for every person, just knowing this fact will make one feel settled observing their behaviours are completely normal and shared with everybody else. One time your meditation may be magical and spacious and everything you dreamed of leaving you in a complete state of nirvana! Nonetheless the next time you practice it could be the complete opposite, full of turmoil, distractions and irregular breathing to name a few. ‘Practice’ is the operative word, an athlete has bad training sessions all the time and varying results, the important thing to remember in meditation is that all these experiences are valid and have something essential to teach us. All sessions will be dependent on your particular state of mind which is pointing your awareness to perhaps an unresolved problem. Therefore, acceptance is the key and enjoy all meditations with gratitude.  

 Basically ‘what ever works for you!’ There are numerous methods and disciplines derived from traditional schools and lineages of meditation that involve extremely strict positions for practicing. For instance, Full Lotus, Half Lotus, Burmese, Seven Point Posture, Zen and Seiza the list goes on. The most important consideration is to be comfortable, there is no point struggling and suffering incessantly during a time where you are supposed to be relaxing into a calm state of being because your legs, knees or back are in excruciating agony. The traditions obviously have their place and methodology intact, but one size does not fit all. As a rule of thumb unless practicing the body scan (lying on the floor) all that is required is a reasonably straight spine and level head to avoid falling asleep, practicing smooth breathing maintaining a state of relaxation but alertness. You should always remain flexible not being afraid to adjust your position to enhance your experience being mindful not to try and create a state of perfection. Generally, a chair, yoga mat or specific zafu cushions are available for students to find a level of comfort, no particular one being superior to another.