In ancient times, the greatest lesson you may receive for a good part of your monastic life is: Sit, breathe. Though practically a literal statement, it is not far off from what it implies. Simplicity of mind and body are something that is cultivated. For new students, the practice is this: Sit down, back straight, legs crossed or tucked under you. Breathe in, breathe out. Follow your breath in and out. If you wish, count 1-10. When your mind wanders from the breath, calmly start over again. This practice alone is fundamental in Buddhism. I recommend trying it for 10-15 minutes a day. It makes all of the difference. On a side note, many teachers often tell their students: "Breathe in from your belly." This creates a deep, rich inhalation. Try this, and then move onto the next part.
This form of meditation is similar to the last. You just go deeper. After following your breath for a few minutes: Bring your awareness to your body. Feel yourself resting on the chair, bed or floor. Bring awareness to your legs, feet. Bring awareness to your stomach, chest, Follow that awareness up to your neck, head, arms, legs, fingers.... Calmly bring your awareness over each part of your body. Notice your heart beat, feel the blood pumping through your body. Feel your lungs inhale and exhale. Return to your breath. Do not count, just breathe, be aware of your entire being in this relaxed state. You may feel the subtle sensations of "energy," around your third eye. This is also called "Self-Contraction" point. Let it be. Continue to breathe.
Just return to the breath. Are you relaxed? If so, simply continue. If not, watch your thoughts, as you watched your breath. Key is not to get wound up---take it easy! Don't try to control your breath. Sometimes that can be a really good way to naturally relax one's mind. Breath as if you were asleep, don't try to find any one rhythm or another. Let your body breath.
Thanks for the advice, I needed to simplify in many areas of my head. Would like to use meditation to help. I know I have all the answers I need, just cant hear past the TV commercials in my head, lol.
This is one of the most common concentration meditations. Read Shaman Sun's post. He recommends "watching the mind". That means, when thoughts come up don't mess with them. Become friends with them before going back to the breath. They are clouds moving through you and you are the sky. The breath is a great thing to focus on for many. Others need more stimulation like mantras or visualizations. The instructions are the same no matter what you focus on.
While "meditating" i saw a light come into my vision and my eyelids were down what could this light represent???
