eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Perform Insight Meditation

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

If you're in search of inner peace and a sense of calm, then consider practicing Buddhist insight mediation, otherwise known as Vipassana. This 2,500-year-old worldwide practice enhances concentration while developing deep wisdom and insight.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Establish a quiet location for your meditation. Technically, Buddhist insight meditation can be done inside or outside. If you're a novice, select a location with minimal distractions.

  2. Step 2

    Select a time to practice mediation. Mornings are optimal as your mind is fresh, rested and clear of daily events. Keep in mind, however, that the best time for meditation, is a time you'll commit to daily.

  3. Step 3

    Sit on a cushion against a wall. Attain appropriate posture by imagining someone pressing between your shoulder blades. Relax your muscles.

  4. Step 4

    Set your hands on your knees or in your lap. Shut your eyes and allow the lids to rest softly. Relax the muscles of your face.

  5. Step 5

    Allow thoughts to flow freely through your mind, even thoughts that are disturbing or frustrating. You'll notice, over time, these thoughts are not permanent. They come and go.

  6. Step 6

    Remain aware of hindrances to effective Buddhist insight meditation, including aversion, restlessness, sleepiness, hopelessness and desire. These hindrances minimize over time.

  7. Step 7

    Meditate for as long as possible. Initially, you'll find it hard to sit for 5 or 10 minutes. As your practice improves, you'll sit for longer periods.

Tips & Warnings
  • Accept a constant wave of thoughts in the beginning, as this reflects the current state of your mind. Gradually, these thoughts diminish as your mind calms.
  • Don't try to force thoughts away. Eventually, they'll depart as new thoughts take hold.
Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Related Ads

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This
Get Free Health Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License. † requires javascript

Live Strong Partner
Livestrong_eHow Health