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;void(0)) In an article in Time magazine back in August, 2003 Joel Stein reported that both doctors and scientists have been recommending meditation to, “prevent, slow or at least control the pain of chronic diseases like heart conditions, AIDS, cancers and infertility.” However, the ATON Project would not recommend it without first consulting with your own physician. Four basic components are necessary for the practice of meditation: (1.) A quiet environment; (2.) A mental device – a word like “relax” for instance or a candle; (3.) A passive or detached attitude; (4.) A comfortable seated or lotus position. The process should consist of the following: (1.) Sit quietly in a comfortable position; (2.) Close your eyes; (3.) Utilize progressive relaxation of your muscles, beginning from the toes and progressing up to the face; (4.) The breathing process should be slow and deliberate. Breathe easily and naturally. Do not breathe hard and fast. That can trigger hyperventilation or a panic-like process. It would also do no good to try and hold the breath for long periods of time. That is not the objective. The objective is to slow down the breathing. Holding the breath does not ensure efficient oxygen consumption. Slow, measured breathing does. If anything, the exhalation should be somewhat slower than the inhalation. The slowed exhalation is more beneficial. (5.) The exercise should take between 10 to 20 minutes at a time, twice a day. Once in the morning and once in the evening is sufficient. Try practicing this daily. Results should come gradually. The passive attitude is important in that it elicits the most important aspect of the exercise: altering the trend of thought. Instead of struggling to achieve some external goal we are letting go and allowing our inner processes to take over. Next month I will try to touch on some ways to help us feel like we are in a constant state of meditation or relaxation throughout our day. If you have any questions about Meditation don’t hesitate to contact me. Newsletter Directory The Aton Project - Home Page Tony VanSluytman info Tony VanSluytman - the Author | Return Home | The BOOK DOCTOR | The BANYON NETWORK | The Banyon Buzz Newsletters | The Aton Project Newsletters | Contact Us | |
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