Meditation | Arthritis Information

Does anyone participate regularly in meditation? If so, does it help? Any tips for a newbie? I feel very self conscious (even if I'm alone) and can't relax.

Phats

Get a meditation for the beginner book or meditation for dummies. You can learn the basics from the books. You need to start with the basics of meditation. If there are other people that you know that are meditating or interested in it, then join the group or start one. It's easier ifor a beginner in a group setting with someone leading the meditation. You learn from others.

If you can't relax you need to figure out why and once you've done that you need to get over the problem. Meditation is all about relaxation. Why are you self conscious? Why do you want to meditate and what do you expect from meditation? These are questions that you should be asking yourself. Maybe this isn't the time for you to learn to meditate.

I meditate every day because it relaxes me and helps me solve problems, clears my mind and refreshes me. At this point in my life I can meditate just about anyplace, even the doctor's office. There are several other people on the forum that will help you. PM if you want more info. Lindy

[QUOTE=LinB]

I've found meditation to be very helpful. If you are new to meditation, it may be a good idea to join a small group. Usually, such groups are very supportive and helpful, Good luck!

Shug, guided meditation has gotten me through some painful times. Sometimes I hear but I don't want to stop meditating, so I ignore the outside distraction. The cats will try to get my attention but after a few moments they'll settle down either on me or beside me and we have a "group" meditation. My kind of group. LindyI have a guided imagery CD downloaded on an MP3 player. (Yeah I know no Ipod here) Anyway if I'm super stressed and I think I'll have trouble sleeping or getting my mind to let go of the what if's- I plug that into my ears and do find it helpful. The man's voice is very soothing and I do what he tells me to do. I can't seem to meditate on my own at all- just can't relax enough. Then I get bored trying.

WOW! Lots of great information. Thanks guys. I'm going to give it a shot in the next couple of days. I have to work a couple of days in a row, so on my next day off.

Phats

Phats, let us know how you do. You keep trying and trying and all of a sudden one day you get it. Meditating isn't easy but worth the time spent. LindySee if there is a Zen center in your area. You can attend sessions there; they can help you get started. [QUOTE=JasmineRain]See if there is a Zen center in your area. [/QUOTE]
That would be wonderful! Many years ago I was privileged to attend a series of workshops on medication techniques and reiki practices at a retreat house at Lake Tahoe. Those sessions remain a highlight of my hippie years. Yes, I am that old!
I have begun to read and listen to Pema Chodron.. She's very soothing w/ her voice.. admits how difficult it can be to get ourselves in the state of meditation and gives some clues and ideas...... [QUOTE=babs10]I have begun to read and listen to Pema Chodron.. She's very soothing w/ her voice.. admits how difficult it can be to get ourselves in the state of meditation and gives some clues and ideas......[/QUOTE]

She's awesome! You can get her audiobooks on audible.com - download them to just about any MP3 player and most smartphones.
She's the one person that I listen to when I'm having difficulty with meditating. No matter how long you've done it there are times when it's not easy. Lindy

Whew, I'm glad to hear that. I have tried in the past, but have always given up. I will try again in the next couple of days. Thanks for all the great info!

Phats

[QUOTE=LinB]She's the one person that I listen to when I'm having difficulty with meditating. No matter how long you've done it there are times when it's not easy. Lindy[/QUOTE]