Meditation is an ancient art that is rapidly becoming a science. At the very least, with the proper techniques, meditation allows us to induce a state of relaxation and to reduce stress. However, meditation is a very important element of eastern philosophy and religion. The person who meditates is able to reach a higher level of consciousness - experiencing the life force and the cosmos.
With the proper techniques, meditation will give you the ability to transcend your physical self.
You will be able to experience oneness with the cosmic life force. If the meditation techniques are done properly, you can focus this life force on whatever parts of the body need healing, and enforce the healing process.
Meditation techniques should be understood before implemented. One should first understand why meditation is necessary and what to expect while meditating. The first meditation technique that needs to be clarified is the proper position. Many students are taught that the lotus position is the only position that should be used for meditation. This technique is misunderstood.
Many successful techniques allow for meditation to be done in a reclining position. Just be sure that the feet are in a position with the soles on the floor, and the hands are loosely at our side, palms up. This is particularly helpful for those with physical problems.
To begin, we must be ready. Meditation deserves its own reserved time. One can not begin to meditate when the demands of the surroundings are bound to interrupt the process. Secondly, the lotus position is traditional, but the reclining position may also be helpful, especially for a beginner. Inducing a state of enlightened consciousness is most easily achieved if the person is comfortable in his position. This is one of the very important techniques in meditation. But even if reclined, the back must be straight - not slouched.
It is very important, when meditating to breathe properly. One doesn't have to breathe loudly or intentionally too slowly. The breathing should be quiet, rhythmic and comfortable. The breathing technique is important, as it is the tool of successful meditation. When meditating for healing, breathe quietly and rhythmically - inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth. This technique is very important- first get into the mode of relaxing, eyes closed, breathing in and out slowly and steadily. Now, picture the healing life force surrounding you. Inhale, and bring the life force into your body. As you exhale through the mouth, direct the life force with your breath to the part(s) of the body that need healing. Continue until you feel the need to stop, or break. See how you are afterwards, the healing and strengthening process should have taken begun.
Another very important technique for meditating solely for higher consciousness is to close your eyes and slowly let go. Try to disengage yourself from your mind. It is probable that thoughts or images may go through your mind. Allow them. But let them flow freely and linger as long as they do. Do not interfere - yet do not focus on them. Observe them as an outsider - do not observe the thought itself, just observe the movement of the thought in and out. It is a floating sensation. At this point be careful not to induce sleep! Remember this next technique for meditation.
Focus down through your body to the hara. The hara is the area right below your navel. This is the point from which life energy flows in and out. Remove yourself and observe being one with the universe through the hara. Your brain at this point will be storing chemicals as it isn't actively producing thoughts.
At this point you will feel bliss. With these meditation techniques, you will begin to experience higher levels of consciousness. Therefore, a key element in achieving spiritual enlightenment is meditation and employing the proper techniques for the desired results.