A Way With Words

Some forms of meditation use a short phrase or an inspirational passage that is memorized and repeated silently as the focal point for meditation.  For some, having words to focus attention on works well and is very appealing.  Another benefit of using an inspirational phrase or passage is that the ideals of the inspirational words are incorporated into your consciousness. It is like planting seeds in your consciousness and watering them with your attention so that your best self and ideals will flourish in daily life.  

• Try Dr. Herbert Benson’s generic relaxation technique, a form of meditation which uses a short inspirational phrase on the out-breath.  See eliciting the relaxation response.

• For an in-depth experience with Passage Meditation and Eknath Easwaran’s Eight Point Program visit the Blue Mountain Center of Meditation website.

Break into the peace within,
Hold attention in stillness
And in the world outside
You will ably master
The ten thousand things  ---  Lao Tsu

The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, not to worry about the future, or not to anticipate troubles, but to live the present moment wisely and earnestly. ---   The Buddha