Meditation
When first starting to meditate, sometimes we feel it's not working because we hear noises from outside and around us. What we dont realise is on a normal day our brain is working so fast that it does not even notice those noises, like the dog barking across the road; but when you are meditating you are making your mind and thoughts slow down so your mind does take notice of the usual noises that you normally suppress. As your spiritual growth increases so you learn to ignore the noises. Just like all things in life, the more you do it the better you will get. Think of it as meditation exercises. Gym workout for the mind.
Ideally, aim to have a clear mind and ultimately a silent mind (even if only for a few minutes). Free of cluttered thoughts. If you do start to think about 'things', just gently bring your attention back to the meditation.
Humming is a fantastic way to stop unwanted thoughts intruding on your meditation. Gently hum a single tone, or hum through the scales gently. Or try a simple prayer.
Here are some more tips - If you are just starting to Meditate:
Before meditation you may fine you need to grounded or earth yourself properly. To ground yourself, simply visualise roots growing out of the bottom of your feet going deep down into the ground. Always supporting you freely. To earth yourself, touch a radiatior, or any connection to earth. Standing on warm sand in bare feet is a fantastic way to earth yourself.
When you start your meditation try and breathe slightly deeper and slower than normal and then allow normal breath all the way through you meditation. More oxygen in the blood helps us to function at the highest vibrations.
The idea is to allow your body to relax completely yet keeping your mind awake and clear of everyday thoughts If you meditate lying down, it is quite likely you may fall asleep (which is fine). However, when following a spiritual development meditation, sit up with a straight spine.
Be comfortable when doing meditation exercises. Uncomfortable clothes or shoes keep irritating the body so you cannot relax enough!
Try to find a warm place to meditate, it will help you relax more easily.
There is no need to cross your legs, ankles or arms. This inhibits the flow of energy around in and out of your chakras and around your body. Also, crossing your limbs stops the flow of blood around the body. When meditating, dont try too hard! However, if you want to sit cross legged in the Lotus position, that's fine too!.
Some people find meditating easier with one clear image (like a rose). Some people start by thinking about seeing colours. Some people see images in the mind. Go with the flow, just relax. With practise you will be able to mediate for a few minutes with a clear mind, uncluttered by images, sounds or outer noise. Aim to 'feel' the positive vibration of the meditation.
These meditations should make you feel clear minded and relaxed. Early moring or just before bedtime is a great start or end to the day. Or just grab a few minutes anytime during your hetic day to relax and enjoy.
Meditate! It's fun.