Stress Management: Doing Meditation

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Introduction

Meditation means different things to different people, and there are many ways to do it. This topic focuses on a kind of meditation called mindful meditation. This practice may help you relax and relieve stress.

Key points

• The goal of mindful meditation is to focus your attention on the things that are happening right now in the present moment. The idea is to note what you experience without trying to change it.
• Meditation can help you relax, because you are not worrying about what happened before or what may occur in the future.
• You don't need any special tools or equipment to practice this meditation. You just sit in a comfortable position in a chair or on the floor. Or you can lie down, if that is more comfortable for you.
• If your mind wanders, don't worry or judge yourself. When you become aware that your thoughts are wandering, simply focus again on the present moment. One way to do this is by paying attention to your body. For example, is your breathing fast or slow, deep or shallow?
• Meditation may bring up certain feelings or emotions. If this happens, don't try to rid your mind of these feelings. Just focus on what you feel at the present moment. Don't get lost in the thoughts that those feelings might trigger.

 What is mindful meditation?

 Why meditate?

 How do you practice meditation?

 Where to go from here

If you want to try other relaxation techniques, see the topics:

Stress management: Breathing exercises for relaxation.

Stress management: Doing guided imagery to relax.

Stress management: Doing progressive muscle relaxation.

Stress management: Practicing yoga to relax.

Stress management: Relaxing your mind and body.

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Last updated:	May 21, 2008
Author:	Merrill Hayden
Reviewed By:	Catherine D. Serio, PhD - Behavioral Health, Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Editors:	Katy E. Magee, MA, Michele Cronen