Meditation has become quite popular in the recent years for its spiritual, mental and physical benefits. Known as Dhyana in Sanskrit, meditation gives immense mental peace to anybody who practices it. Meditation can, in fact, relax you better than a night of sleep. It allows your mind to break free from the fetters of anxiety, tension and stress. And when the mind is liberated from any agitation, you become happier from within. Today, as part of our countdown to International Day of Yoga 2018, let's focus on Dhyana or meditation.

How To Meditate

Strangely, most people are confused about the right technique of mediation even know they are aware of its benefits. Some think that a person who meditates should try very hard to focus and improve concentration. But that's a misconception. Any forcible efforts to concentrate defeats the purpose of meditation. The founder of Art of Living Sri Sri Ravi Shankar states that meditation is not concentration it is de-concentration where you let your mind loose.

Here's How You Should Do It:

    • Wear comfortable, loose clothes.

    • Pick a quiet spot in your house where there are no distractions like a television, computer, etc. If you have picked a spot next to the window, make sure there isn't too much noise outside.

    • The idea pose for meditation is Padmasana. But you can also meditate in Sukhasana or Vajrasana.

    • Sit on the floor or on a chair, whichever you find comfortable.

    • Keep your spine erect, arms and shoulders are relaxed and your head straight. You can take the support of the wall to keep your back straight.

    • Stack your palms on top of each other and keep it close to your abdomen.

    • Without concentrating on anything, keep a mild focus on your third eye (space between your eyebrows). Let the thoughts come to you, whether pleasant or unpleasant.

    • As you continue your dhyana, your thoughts may dissolve as your mental activities will reduce.

    • Stay in this form for a while.

Here's a video to assist you.

What Are The Benefits of Meditation or Dhyana?

Apart from refreshing your body and mind, meditation can help you focus better and bring about behavioural changes. It clears your mind, destress you and helps you sharpen your skills. Eventually, meditation can also improve your willpower and inner strength. It helps you connect to your true self and tap your inner strength. More importantly, it helps you heal from within. With regular meditation, you will start seeing stunning positive changes in your life.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 12, 2018 04:02 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).