Getting on with meditation

Meditation teachers give varying advice on how best to meditate. It's worth shopping around and trying different systems to find one that suits you.

You can also get started at home by following some basic steps for beginners.

* Choose a cool, clean place with few distractions. * Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight. * Be aware of any stiffness or pains in your body and let go of any tension you notice particularly in the shoulders and stomach. * Let your thoughts come and go but do not pay undue attention them. * Be aware of your breathing becoming slower and regular but do not influence it. * Imagine your favorite nature scene and allow your mind to expand into it. * Stay without moving for five to 10 minutes, and then gradually open your eyes and move slowly.