I found out much later that I was beginning meditation. The instructor must have been concerned about giving too much information about yoga philosophy and spiritual traditions of Eastern India. Our community was extremely slow about accepting new ideas. She was probably reluctant to introduce something new that could cause problems. So yoga positions were only taught as an exercise.

I imagine many new or different ideas were stifled in beginning. Some hesitate to share information for fear of being rejected or ostracized. And some of us hesitate to look at new information because we're afraid of rocking boat.

As you explore concept of meditation, you will learn about varied benefits that can be brought about by meditation, including health, emotional release, and self- empowerment. You will realize that meditation is about ease. Moving one step at a time.

The Purpose of Meditation

Meditation is a way to connect with inner self, or what some believe is Divine Spark of God that we all are. It is to become quiet: to allow all outside disturbances to fade away, to be comfortable with quiet. That quiet, or silence, which is allowed in, can calm mind, restore body, and define a spiritual path. Let's take this opportunity to try a sample meditation on for size. Remember that this is a sample. It gives us chance to practice. And in practicing, we learn.

Bringing In A Quiet Moment

Take a moment out of your busy day. Go for a five-minute walk by yourself. Pay attention to sound of your footsteps. Let it become even with your heartbeat. When this rhythm within you overrides sounds of day, take a deep cleansing breath. Look at sky. Watch clouds. Just enjoy moment. This is skill of meditation. It is nothing harder than that: just taking a moment, and relaxing into it. Allow your mind to relax into it.

This is just a very quick way for everyone to get some idea of what meditation is like. There are plenty of different types of meditations, as many as there are people. It requires a few undisturbed minutes, dedication and a desire. It will open up a whole new world for you. Just give it a try. Copyright 2003, Melissa Leath

Rev. Melissa Leath is a personal growth and metaphysical counselor and meditation instructor. She is author of "Meditation, Plain and Simple Workbook," and "The Go-Between: Bridging the Gap." For more information about the ease of meditation visit her website: http://www.MeditationMadeEasy.com For a FREE Spiritual Newsletter go to http://www.123-spiritual-growth.com