Meditation is a great way to calm the mind, connect with your own “Inner Buddha” and be a witness to the internal churnings of your spirit. Below are some techniques, which have been shared with me by friends and teachers over the years - I hope you enjoy them as much as I have.

Loving kindness
A Buddhist meditation for compassion.

Becoming present
A breathing practice I often use in classes.

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Preparation

Before you begin to open yourself to meditation please ensure you will not be disturbed, you are sitting comfortable on a block, pillow or chair and your space is free from clutter. You’re welcome to light incense/candle and begin in your own unique way, which prepares your mind for this sacred time.

Taking your time to settle the mind and give yourself FULL permission to be fully present in your space, in your body. Begin to gently lengthen the spine nice and long, tucking in the chin slightly to lengthen the back of the neck and allowing the shoulder blades melt down the back as this opens across the sternum.

Gently closing the eyes and drawing your attention to the gentle inhalation and exhalation of the breath as it travels in through the nose, past the back of the throat and down into the belly, feeling your belly open and expand to the front, sides and back – filling up like a balloon. As you exhale, gently draw the bellybutton to the spine as the air is released out the same way it came in, feeling the exhalation on the upper lip. Become aware of the gentle pause as the breath cycle turns to the inhalation again and continue the cycle.