Traditional forms of meditation are practised in particular postures, but these can sometimes be uncomfortable and difficult to achieve for the Western body. You don’t have to be young and supple to meditate properly, everyone can benefit.

The most important thing is to feel comfortable. Assume a comfortable sitting or lying position. If lying down, you may need a support for your head; if sitting on a chair, make sure your chair will support your back so that your spine is straight. When sitting on the floor, try to sit cross-legged resting your buttocks on the front edge of a special meditation cushion (or firm pillow).

It is important that you are able to breathe freely, sitting with a straight back helps to prevent any restriction of your diaphragm and lungs.

During meditation, the body’s metabolism slows down and you may begin to feel cold, so make sure that the room is warm before you begin. Wear loose clothing and remove any obtrusive jewellery.

Having familiarised ourselves with the basic principles and techniques of meditation, we are now equipped to delve more deeply into the mental and spiritual resources that we will need to draw upon as we set off on our journey.

At this stage, we should recognize that meditation can become a way of life, sitting down and focusing your mind is just a small part of the experience. You may discover that change arises naturally in all areas of your life when you introduce meditation. And although you do not necessarily need to alter your lifestyle dramatically to benefit from meditation, a certain level of commitment is desirable. The extent of this commitment is entirely up to you.

Now we are going to discover, among other things, the concept of �⒬Ŕmindfulness�⒬�, that is, of giving our full attention and awareness to the thoughts and feelings that take place in our minds and bodies.

For example, we can become �⒬Ŕmindful�⒬� of the instinctive drives that control our eating habits, our attitude to exercise, or our abuse of our bodies through smoking and drinking.

By fully encountering these drives and impulses and becoming more conscious of them, we take a step toward improving the quality of our lives.

Begin your meditation journey with an open mind. Have no expectations. Be patient and welcome any positive changes that come into your life.