[nandm]

A lot of stress can be traced to the negative "chatter" that goes on in our minds ---- muddled thoughts about what we said or did or should have said or done, or what we think we might say or do ---- which only serves to distract us from fully enjoying the present. Meditation provides a welcome break from internal as well as external noise. Try this exercise, one of many ways to meditate:

1. Sit quietly in a chair or on the floor and gently close your eyes. Bring mindful awareness to your breath as it flow in and out of your body. Is it shallow or deep? Is your inhale longer, shorter, or the same as you exhale? just notice these things without changing them.

2. Pay attention to the sensations in your body as you breathe ---- the feel of your breath in your nostrils, your lungs, and your belly.

3. Allow yourself to experience whatever feelings come up. If stray thoughts about the past or future enter your mind, exhale them with your next breath and continue to focus on your breathing and this moment.

4. Do this for at least 5 minutes and try to work up to 15 to 20 minutes of meditation in one sitting.

From: 7 Simple Steps to Unclutter Your Life
By: Donna Smallin