Meditation for Beginners

I know some of you get freaked out when you hear the word "meditation" because you associate it with some bald-headed Asian monk chanting "Ommmmm." In some countries this is true, but not to everyday people like you and me. Meditation basically means to quiet the mind. Silence the incessant chattering that wastes our mental energy on insignificant rambling. Once you can achieve this, no matter how small, you will experience clarity and a whole positive outlook and feeling to life. It is truly life changing and it has changed my life forever.

Okay, so for those of you beginners who want to get a feel for meditation, I've made it very simple. See the candle flame? Just stare at it for 3-5 minutes and try not to let any thoughts come in. If they do, just recognize that you have those thoughts and then push them out. The reason we do this is to prove we have control over our own minds. Our thoughts don't dictate us, we dictate them.

Also, it is more effective if you use a real candle flame because when you stare at the flame for, let's say, 30 seconds you can close your eyes and still see the flame. Then you can meditate on the flame with your eyes closed. It's also important that you do this in a quiet room without any distractions.

For beginners, I recommend trying this exercise for 5 minutes a day (preferably first thing in the morning or right before you go to bed). Then gradually it will become easier to meditate for 20-30 minutes a day, which is ideal! And let's be honest, what's 5 minutes out of our day? Believe me, you will feel amazing after!