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Groups > Healthy Living Network > Discussions > Topic: My Most Insightful Meditation - What's Yours?
Topic: My Most Insightful Meditation - What's Yours?

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Annie B.	My Most Insightful Meditation - What's Yours? June 02, 2005 10:47 AM As simple and as informal as this guided meditation is, I never fail to gain insight, wisdom, and healing, when I remember to do it! It has come to my aid, for example, in situations as diverse as helping me during a horrible fight with my mother when all my “buttons” were triggered (and the insight I gained was transformative), to helping with a writers block that occurs occasionally. As a meditation it is deceptively simple, and you don’t need to sit in a special way, breathe deeply, be at a special place, or be any way except as you are at the moment. LINK Guided Meditation Ask your Higher Self (located about eight inches above your head) to please send healing to the part of you that is having trouble with the situation at hand (emotional, physical, whatever), and pray for insight. When I ask for these things, I invariably feel some energetic movement in the part of my body that needs healing (and the location of this part is often revealing), and a deep insight about the situation pops into my head (sometimes not right away, but within 10 minutes). Hardly a day goes by when such a meditation doesn’t offer help. Please offer your most helpful meditations! Annie [ send green star]
Melani B.	Meditation June 04, 2005 6:49 PM I've been pondering this post since I read it the day it was put up. I can't actually say that I've ever even really tried meditation. As close as I can say that I've come is several years ago I was involved in a prayer group. Sadly, I have to admit that I had THE hardest time staying focused. It was like I literally had to DRAG my mind back to the topic/person being prayed for/about. Heck, I could barely keep my mind focused for my own prayer time. I have read about the benefits of meditation, but have yet to try it. Maybe since this post has stuck with me for so long, I will have to consider it more and give it a try. Any recommendations for getting started? [ send green star] [ accepted]
Vivek S.	Meditation: Leading to Spiritual Awareness June 04, 2005 7:05 PM Hi Melanie & Annie, Reading your posts, I thought that you might be interested in looking at the "Spirituality" group; http://www.care2.com/c2c/group/spirituality There is a huge community exploring these issues. If you are interested in trying something unique, you may try active on-line mediation on; http://www.thespiritual.org/HTML/OnlineMed.htm This website also provided in-depth discussions and information on related subjects. Hope this is helpful. Do give your feedback, specially on the on-line meditation. Best wishes, Vivek [ send green star] [ accepted]
Lynn S.	my tarot meditation June 09, 2005 1:32 PM I've been both reading Tarot cards & meditating for about 25 yrs. About 15 yrs ago I began meditating as the fool, stepping off the cliff & following my path. Sometimes I meet other major arcana cards but usually I just find that the fool's path is a lot like my own. Often I'll meet someone on the path in my meditation who will give me a gift which usually ends up being something I need in my daily journey. About 10 yrs ago I found I was crossing a swinging bridge over a deep ravine in my meditations. As I'm afraid of heights this was a trial, but a white tiger who often comes into my meditations helped me cross. Later when I came to the bridge I'd notice that boards were missing & towards the end I'd see a bridge with only 2 or 3 boards, but I was told just to watch my next step & there was always a board there. About that time I went through a horrible divorce with a bankruptcy, a job loss & a suicidal daughter. I began to realize that I was being prepared before the fact by this meditation. I often had to focus on the fact that at the moment I had a roof over my head, clothes to wear & food to eat & not worry about the next step. I'm thankful to say that I've made it through those days, even paying off the bills for 4 hospital stays for my daughter & I credit this meditation to keeping me sane. [ send green star] [ accepted]
Sheila B.	In Meditation.. June 09, 2005 2:01 PM Hi Annie and everyone. I was drawn to this post as the topic suggested 'Insightful Meditation' .. From information that I have read about meditation, and from people sharing their views about it, I think, for the most part, that people seem to feel the need to be in a special place, take a certain position, practice special breathing techniques, and perhaps have lit candles or incense. I can certainly see how this can aid one in meditating, and I believe that there is no 'one certain way' to meditate. Personally, what works for me, is very simple and is very similar to what you, Annie, have suggested you do. I do find it helpful to seek out a quiet place, and then simply think on how and what I am feeling. To understand how I am feeling and why, whether it be emotionl or physical, immediately helps me to project into a 'place' of peace and healing. So, yes, I think reaching to the higher self and asking for the understanding is most important in getting me to that 'place' of peace and healing. Wonderful post Annie - much appreciated! Thank you. -Maggie [ send green star] [ accepted]
Laura H.	Meditaitve breathing June 09, 2005 8:08 PM Meditative breathing: Place your thumbs in your navel with your hands draped over your lower abdomen. As you inhale your hands should rise and as you exhale your hands should lower. First inhale to the slow count of 4 and exhale to the slow count of 4. Then you want to extend the cycles. Inhale and exhale for the slow count of 6, 8 and finally 10. After you have done this for a time you will notice some natural relaxing. Now tell a part of you body to relax, i.e. inhale for 10, exhale slowly for a count of ten and as you exhale try to relax your scalp. It may several tries before you actually feel the skin loosen. Do this with every part of your body. Your face, shoulders, back, stomach, etc. After while the relaxing part will be easy, then you can start your visualization. Picture a place that is serenity to you. An example: A meadow full of wild flowers. Feel the grass under your feet, the slight breeze caressing your face, the smell of the wild flowers and the birds hiding in the tall grass. Slowly turn around the area. Take in the whole scene. Maybe there's a large oak tree by a sparkling brook. Sit down under the tree. Feel the bark against your back. The dappling sun light dancing on the water. [ send green star] [ accepted]
Ariel S.	Great Thread! June 09, 2005 8:24 PM I've tried many techniques, each helped a little but I haven't settled on one that seems most natural to me yet. =Ariel [ send green star] [ accepted]
Barbara W.	"One World" June 10, 2005 12:31 PM Meditating and guided thoughts are all new to me and have helped to show me that it can help slow our breathing as well as our thoughts. Lighting a candle was brought to my awareness by a special person to help honor someone and I have sense intergrated into a practice (or meditation) that is very calming for me. I use three candles, the first of which I light as the Human world and all of it's existence.I take time to really focus on the flame and the light it gives.(This without any thought, slows the breath) after a moment, I ask that the light in every way be and shine bright enough so that all the world with all of it's existence might see and know the light, where there is no hope, that hope would "be"!That the flame would be a guide for every-"one" and the light would spark and move to be felt in every given place of existence.The second candle I light, giving also my foucus for a moment just to the light of the flame.(The breath is very steady without thought and as you ask the light for things, feelings you may not know were there seem to come alive)this light I ask for a path to guide all the animals who still have not found their way home, who feel lost, that the light would be a source of warmth,love,food, shelter, and another day.For the animals who of any existence who have a home, their guide and link to us, and even more powerful(for me) the "light" of the flame is a connection of the dear ones who have passed.Which brings me to the thrid candle,focusing on the flame, the light, watching it dance with the other two, it is the most beautiful reminder(especially in a dark room) that we do not live in two seperate worlds, we are "ONE".For "one", could not exist without the other, just as the flame you are looking at, could not exist witout the air.It helps remind me that, (and I often forget) I am part of the "One" and I am also part of the light. (Annie, if I had words to express how helpful your expression on your website has been you would have them, but I cannot find what seems to be the right words.Thank you for following your heart.My deepest gratitude.) [ send green star] [ accepted]
Annie B.	the animals June 10, 2005 6:28 PM Thanks for your appreciative words, Barbara, I feel humbled and grateful. I love including the care for the animals in the three candles meditation... the meditation feels like a prayer, even, and one I will try. Thank you, everyone, for your thoughful suggestions. Annie [ send green star]
Lou Ann J.	Meditation July 23, 2005 5:43 PM Water is a wonderful element for meditations....I often do not have time during the day, so , when in the shower, it becomes either my forest waterfall or my desert hot springs....water is a cleansing, clarity element....try it..connect not only to the water, but in your meditation you can touch with the other elements and whatever dieties you share with...and it only takes the time of your shower...and the rest of your day will seem much easier as you have started it with cleansing, contact and serenity. [ send green star] [ accepted]
Sarvo P.	Rise early - before the sun comes up - and chant for 2 hours July 23, 2005 6:16 PM Recommended for this present age of Kali? The Maha Mantra: ~ Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare ~ [ send green star] [ accepted]
	July 24, 2005 2:20 AM Great thread - very inspirering! My most insightful meditations was during a spiritual cruise in the tyrkish skerries this summer. It was very powerful to sit 12 people in a circle while no sounds, besides the ones from mother nature, were interrupting us. The rocking motion from the ship made the experience even more natural. Especially guided meditations on the chakras have a very deep inpact on me. I know that the least of us have these sorroundings in our everyday life, but chakra meditation always seem to have a healing effect on me and keeps me in great balance. Loving thoughts Signe [ send green star] [ accepted]
Rie B.	Wonderful thread! July 24, 2005 11:13 AM Barbara, thanks esp for your post. It is a beautiful thing to do, and must be very helpful. Mine comes off a mousepad, of all places, that my son gave to me when he was very young. Inspirational mouse pads are not exactly my cup of tea, but it has helped me over the years. On it are a picture of a garden path, and the words "The path of love and the path of insight lead into the same garden." When I feel angry or irritated, I reflect on the words...kind of just breathing in "love and insight" feelings and acceptances. [ send green star] [ accepted]
Road L.	Inner Sound and Light meditation July 28, 2005 8:18 PM All meditation is good, as it tends to quiet the mind and lead us away from ego towards the real essence of our being. Try this link to learn more about this form of meditation which can lead to very deep insights; http://www.knowthyselfassoul.net The most profound meditation I had was when all of my chakras opened up and I had a kundalini experience at age 18 or so. The above meditation method is not about that however.... Peace, Eric [ send green star] [ accepted]
Melanie E.	It's so hard! July 30, 2005 4:58 PM I am new to the posts, and I hope I'm posting correctly. I agree with Melani B. I have read books, tried candles, aromatherapy, soothing music, stretches, etc., and I can't seem to find my 'place'. Just when I think I might find it, my mind goes back to all the bills I need to pay, the sleep I'm losing, my job, etc.; or my husband or daughter comes in and asks what I'm doing and could I.... I know I need privacy, or at least some private time, but it's so hard to find! What do ya'll do to get that? To quiet your mind? And the house? Any suggestions would be most appreciated! Melanie [ send green star] [ accepted]
Blue B.	The Power of Metta ... A "loving/kindness" meditation July 31, 2005 2:02 AM This is my daily meditation, I learned at the Insight Meditation Society in New York. Lovingkindness is the quality of friendliness toward oneself and others developed through the practice of metta. This talk describes how the practice works as a protection, a healing, a purification of heart, and a boundless state of mind. Lovingkindness, or metta as it is known in Pali, is a universal, unselfish and all-embracing love that protects, supports and heals both oneself and others. This guided meditation for cultivating the power of metta begins by directing positive sentiments towards oneself and progresses to radiate this well-wishing outward towards specific people and finally to all beings everywhere, without limit. IMS has made this meditation available online; download it, and other meditations at: http://www.dharmastream.org/dharmatalks.html May all beings find peace. [ send green star] [ accepted]
Lynn S.	finding quiet time to meditate August 02, 2005 1:08 PM Melanie, I find that either very early in the morning or late at night is best for me. I have a friend who calls me at 3am every Monday morning & we both meditate sending light to a certain area of the world for 15 minutes. I set my alarm & usually if she doesn't call I wake up & call her. I agree that 3 am isn't to everyone's liking but it does work for us. Also about quieting your mind, my advice is to stick with it. Eventually your mind will learn that you keep coming back to the meditation & will get out of your way. My body used to get unbearably tense when I'd meditate. I finally learned to change position while trying to keep my mind focused & eventually the tension left but if I neglect my meditation for awhile the tension comes in when I begin again. Another trick is to try something like yoga or tai chi before the meditation or even mindful walking. A moving meditation sometimes tricks the mind too. Good luck. [ send green star] [ accepted]
Melanie E.	Thanks, Lyn! August 02, 2005 4:27 PM I appreciated your post, and I will try getting up earlier than normal. If I try to stay up late, my daughter thinks she has to stay up with me! And I also get extremely tense and forget to breathe, so I like the idea of tia chi. Would you know where I can find more info on that? Thanks so much!! [ send green star] [ accepted]
Lynn S.	tai chi for meditation August 03, 2005 1:30 PM Melanie, I have no idea where you could find a tai chi instructor but if you know a yoga place they may be able to help you. Also since it's an Oriental form you could ask at karate or tae kwan do schools. Most of my tai chi teachers also do those. Another good meditative exercise is chi kung. I know about children helping you meditate at night. I began meditating 25 years ago & really had to carve out time. Finally Mom's meditation became such a commonplace thing that my oldest daughter would keep her younger siblings quiet in the middle of the day for mom's nap time. But by then she was 10 & could help. Good luck, Lynn [ send green star] [ accepted]
Blue B.	Where to find a tai chi teacher August 09, 2005 7:27 AM Melanie E., you could search for a teacher at this site: http://www.taichinetwork.org/about.html or here: National Qigong (Chi Kung) Association USA :: NQA :: pain relief :: Tai Chi ... http://www.nqa.org/ or here: http://www.worldtaichi.com/ To help you settle down to meditation, Thich Nhat Hahn has a video: Mindful Movements: Gentle Contemplative Exercises with Monks & Nuns of Plum Village Thich Nhat Hanh is a master teacher and in Mindful Movements provides gentle, contemplative exercises specifically designed to cultivate a joyful awareness of the body and breath within the tradition of Zen Buddhism. These are the same "meditations in motion" that the monks and nuns of Plum Village Monastery use daily as a complement to their sitting meditation practice. http://tinyurl.com/bzl4s I use this video almost every morning! [ send green star] [ accepted]
Sarvo P.	Insightful Meditation: The maha mantra August 09, 2005 7:30 AM I'm here to make God happy. What can I do to please God today? Group Host - please toggle HTML - that would definitely please God. [ send green star] [ accepted]
Blue B.	August 09, 2005 7:34 AM Melanie E., Because tai chi chuan is such a precise art, it's best learned from an experienced teacher; using books or videos just doesn't allow for the personal attention beginners require. Tai chi is often taught in martial arts schools, which advertise in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory, in neighborhood newspapers or publications devoted to alternative healing. Classes in tai chi chuan are also offered through many community colleges, university extension programs, YMCA/YWCAs or health clubs. Check out the teachers' credentials; ideally, an instructor should have mastered all forms of tai chi, from the slow beginner's exercises to the most advanced use of tai chi as a martial art. The term "master" is applied to a teacher who studied at an advanced level for many years and whose students in turn have taught others. References from several students are the best recommendation. From the Vegetarian Times article: The gentle way to fitness - Healthy by Choice - includes related information on finding a tai chi instructor read more---> http://tinyurl.com/ajnwu [ send green star] [ accepted]
Geeta B.	October 25, 2008 2:30 PM I am still find what works ofr me. For the past year or so I have had a lot of setbacks and recently a friend of mine sent me this poem. Reading it a few times a day helps calm me. Im posting it here, hope it helps someone: As children bring their broken toys, with tears for us to mend. I brought my broken dream to God, because He was my friend. But then, instead of leaving him in peace, to work alone. I hung around and tried to help, with ways that were my own. At last, I snatched them back and cried, "How can you be so slow?" "My child," He replied, "What could I do? You never did let go." Hope it helps... [ send green star] [ accepted]
Annie B.	explain? October 27, 2008 12:45 PM Interesting! I don't get, it though..... What does it mean to yiou, Geeta? [ send green star]
Troy D.	Meditation October 27, 2008 2:10 PM KISS is an acronym used in some 12 step recovery groups. Keep It Simple Sweetie(or stupid is used--I prefer sweetie) I love your technique Annie--simple and sweet. I experienced a "swooping color type meditation" when I was attuned to Reiki. I was not aware that I was reigning it in and not fully flowing. I discovered that years later in Maui while I was getting acupuncture treatments.I had torn up my left leg while riding a beach bike. He was giving me healing herbs along with the acpuncture--one was a linking tea pill. One day he was working on the sacral chakra--left me for the treatment to finish--and I started the flowing out and the swooping--much more intense than I had ever felt--and I then realized that I was holding back--I totally let go and went with it-there are no words--my essence was swirling colors--light--I was going into the light--and I heard--felt--the message--I AM the light!! It was a life changing knowing. I have not shared that with a lot of people--I have learned you need discernment on who it is wise and safe to share some experiences with in our world. We are all one in the spirit--one family--part of the light. That is so wonderful and comforting. [ send green star] [ accepted]