Meditation works to train the conscious mind to a state of stillness and tranquillity and brings both physiological and psychological benefits.

Many people associate meditation with Eastern philosophies or religion, but meditation takes on many forms and philosophies and no religious bias is necessary. You can take from it whatever you need. Primarily, it is a discipline to train your mind to a point of both deep concentration and relaxation.

Why meditate?

Methods of meditation may differ, but they all have in common the aim of producing a state of deep relaxation which, it is claimed, rejuvenates both mind and body.

People who meditate regularly say it gives them a new zest for life, with increased energy, improved concentration and an inner peace that leads to better relationships. Sportsmen and women even claim it improves their performance.

When you see someone meditate, it looks as if very little is happening. You may notice that their breathing has slowed down, but otherwise they remains quite still, eyes closed. The work is all taking place on the inside.

Most of the meditation techniques that are used today are really concentration techniques. Their effect on the mind might be compared with the effect of exercise on the muscles of the body. They aim to tone up the mind's capacity for analysis, concentration, inference, memory, perception, recognition and recall.