I personally meditate on the train on the way to Chicago twice a week. There are two "prayers" that are more like meditations at the end of the book "the four agreements" that I read, slowly, then close my eyes and open myself to the sound of my spirit for about 10 minutes. The city is a different place when I do that, and it is easier then to remember that we are all part of one organism.

I also lead guided meditations with my children's choir and with my own children. It is amazing to watch a bunch of rowdy 5 to 11 year old boys and girls as their energy changes to one of silent connection.

I'm in the middle of a class on meditation and buddhism. Right now, I'm just trying to establish a discipline and time for daily practice. Looks like it may have to be at work during lunch, as my hectic life at home with kids is hard to work around. I anticipate that it will be really helpful in learning to quiet my endlessly spinning mind.

I don't call it a practice i call it a way of life.

I meditate every morning for 15 min. Just siting quitely stilling my mind and concentrating on my breath.

I seems to center me and prepare for the day ahead.

I love that what you said about the kids! It is so amazing how they respond to silence. No fear there at all.

Do you also have a silent practice of meditation, in which consciousness in you has a chance to gaze upon its own vast beauty with any distractions at all.

love and Peace,

Mick.

That's great news Duestrj,

It seems you have a busy life, but may I suggest something. The best time to meditate (that is, sit still, no physical movements, and allow your awareness to come to rest of emptiness) is first thing in the morning. A very simple reason for this is that the mind is just quieter at this time of the day and if you need to get up early enough many of those around you will be still sleeping so the energy of your entire city may also be quiet.

A busy mind is no problem. Just ask, who's observing?

love and Peace,

Mick.

Hi Matt,

Meditation is our natural state, hence it is centering for that reason.

In my humble opinion when meditation is no longer and practice and has become a way of life there is no longer a formal sitting practice. That is you have already developed the ability to witness in the gross state, the subtle state and the causal state of consciousness.

love and Peace,

Mick.

Genpo Roshi, my Zen Master says that there are five reasons why we approach meditation, and in this order:

1.- For improvement

2.- For empowerment

3.- In searching for enlightenment

4.- To help and empower others in their practice

5.- There is no reason, because it is our life, because it is what we do.

So it seems that you just approached the fith level,

Thank you and looking forward more,

Debora.