Is stress killing you? Trying a weight loss program and can't stick with it? Maybe you're trying to cope with chronic pain? Headaches, back pain that kind of thing?

I bet someone in your life has already suggested meditation. So, you're sitting there all by yourself. Wondering what's supposed to be happening?

3 Keys to Effective Meditation:

• Stillness
• Silence
• The Buzz

Stillness

Stillness is all about relaxing your body. There are a bunch of methods out there for getting relaxed. Find one that you like and work with it.

Most techniques for relaxation will include helping you become more aware of your state of physical tension. Once you are aware of where you are physically tense, you'll find it much easier to let go of the tension.

Relaxing music and breathing exercises are typical, too. They help with physical relaxation and silencing your mind.

Silence

Silence. A mind with nothing in it? A blank slate?

Actually, a silent mind isn't a blank slate at all. It's really more of a state of observation.

Being silent means you watch your thoughts as they pass through your awareness. No judgments or reactions. Just detached observations of inner-self.

Sit in that state of Stillness and Silence. Watch what thoughts pop up. Pay attention to them.

They may be trying to tell you something.

The Buzz

Finally, with a little practice, you start to feel something. It is a physical sensation. Maybe a warm feeling. A slight shiver up your spine. Some tingling.

Once you've tapped into this sensation you've opened the door to a whole new world. It's time to start watching for little changes in your life.

Maybe you start noticing a sense of calm in your life, instead of chaos. Muscles may start relaxing. Headaches may not bother you as much. You aren't sick as often as you used to be. Maybe you find yourself experiencing more good luck.

The buzz is the state energy healers are in when they do their work. Don't worry, you don't have to do anything. Just know that your meditation practice is coming along great!

(C)2006 William Cole, Permission is granted to use this article, as long as it remains unchanged, including the resource box and links.