Introduction to Meditation

Written by Heather Nodello

Meditation. Mindfulness. Awareness. Consciousness. This is what the ‘Shift’ has ushered in.

The mind has become the seat of the soul. It acts as both a guide and a guard for our hearts and intuition. Now more than ever we live in an ‘information based’ society which means many of us are trapped in our ‘heads’. To get ‘out of our heads’, we choose to distract it further with technology. Our egos cannot see the truth within. Negative thoughts, self judgments, and never-ending ‘to-do’ lists are tearing at the fabric of our health. Meditation is a tool that allows us the energy to stop and reassess what is happening in our lives.

Meditation works by focusing the thoughts. Rather than having various memories, thoughts and fears circulating in the mind, meditation pulls its attention to one main thing allowing the mind space to slow down. As the mind slows down and starts to focus, the body physically relaxes, and the heart can connect with its emotions. This allows the body, mind and spirit to realign. The result is feeling calm, focused, and physically rejuvenated. Challenges don’t feel so overwhelming. Clarity of the mind returns which decreases anxiety and stress. With proper practice, the mind becomes calm and focused as a state of being. A certain sense of contentment

occurs because you feel both free and in control of life. The most important benefit is that it reconnects you with Self- and helps to create energetic buffers between you and the difficult people or situations in your life.

Beginner

Anyone new to breath work and meditation. Begin with the 8 Breath Count, Opening and Closing meditation, and the Open Heart meditation to create a sense of Self and inner calm. Then move onto the Higher Self meditation to reconnect to Who You Are in truth! The Good Morning and Nighttime meditations are particularly helpful for creating a higher energy to start and end your day.

The rest of the meditations should be used when they are needed. Either choose them by category or message or use your intuition! Which one calls to you? What area of your life is requesting attention? The more you go within, the greater sense of contentment you will experience.

In-Class Meditations

In-class meditations are held at our central office. Each meditation class involves live instruction by one of our trained teachers. The classes are themed and bring focus to a particular challenge or area of growth. Aromatherapy and movement are often included in the class, introducing other healing modalities for clients. In-class participants benefit from sharing physical space with other like-minded people. Mats and water are provided. Blankets and pillows are recommended.

Online Meditations

Online meditations are audio recorded meditations that can be used 24 hours a day. Whether part of a ritual or pers

onal practice or used ‘when needed’, these recordings guide you through various meditation processes. In the comfort of your own home, you can use the meditations to create your own field of sacredness and calm. Still your mind, allow insights and new perspectives, and invite your body to function naturally once again.