- How often should I practice?
Dedication to daily practice is encouraged for good mental hygiene and to reduce mental ‘plaque’ and ‘build-up’. . Just like brushing one’s teeth or washing one’s body helps to remove daily build-up, try developing a meditation routine around an existing habit, such as, after your alarm goes off, you brush your teeth or bathe. - Why should I practice regularly?
You will begin to notice a shift or clarity in your mental energy and how you relate to the inner/outer worlds with repeated regular practice. - Should I meditate at a specific time of day?
In the East, meditation is practiced at around 4AM, before sunrise, when ‘pranic’ energy is most saturated in the environ. However, if early morning hours do not suit your schedule, it is recommended to find a daily consistent time. - For what length of time should I meditate?
Start with an accessible amount of time. If you are a beginner, try five (5) minutes to start and slowly increase to 10, 15, 20, 25 etc. – to the desired time appropriate for your schedule. - Why should I prepare a meditation space for my practice?
To condition the mind and body to enter a meditative mind state and receive benefit upon entering the space. - How should I prepare my physical space?
Your space will ideally be clean, tidy, and organized, spacious and well ventilated and with as little external stimuli as possible (sound, physical sensation, lights, smells, etc.). - How should I prepare my body?
Meditate when the stomach is mostly empty, the body is clean and the mind is receptive to receiving instruction. The practice of yoga or other physical activities may help to relax the mind and body and/or release physical tension prior to meditation. - May I eat prior to meditating or other engaging in other meditative-like practices?
Ideally, it is recommended to wait between 45-60 minutes after a light meal, after digestion has taken place, and longer waiting periods for a heavier meal. - May I use candles, essential oils, incense or religious objects during meditation?
If you would like to set up an altar or a designated area to invoke peace, connectedness, love and/or other positive, spiritual or religious objects or imagery (such as idols or deities, incense, candles, crystals, live plants, essential oils, etc.), this is encouraged.
