Guest Author - Debbie Striker
Artist use many things to inspire them. Music, images, people and places can all be inspiring, but how often do you take time to be in complete silence?
Silence can be scary for many people. When you take away all distractions you are left alone with your thoughts. Your mind wanders through all the things you think you should be doing. The dishes need to be washed, the laundry needs folding, the living room could use rearranging. As your mind tries to keep itself busy, all these thoughts and many more may crowd into your awareness.
Silent meditation can be both the easiest and the hardest form of meditation to practice. It does not require anything but you and a quiet space.
Sit or lie down in a comfortable position and close your eyes. Make sure you are able to relax completely. Having muscle cramps in the middle of meditating is definitely distracting as well as uncomfortable.
Breath deeply in and out through your nose. Take your time and breath slow, even breaths. Count as you breath in and out. Try to make your inhalations and exhalations last the same number of counts.
Pay attention to the way the air feels as it enters and exits your body. The air coming into your nose tends to feel cooler than that which is leaving.
Feel the air move through your nose and down in to your lungs. Feel your lungs expand and contract with each breath.
Listen to the sound of your breathing. Does the air have a fragrance or even a flavor? Engage as many of your senses as you can.
If you have any tight muscles in your body, focus your attention on that area and allow your breath to flow down into the tightness. Breath into any areas that are in need of extra attention.
Do the above for several minutes before focusing on whatever you're seeking creative inspiration for. Once you are calm and relaxed, gently focus on your project. Think about what you need clarity or a different perspective on. Watch your thoughts or images and see where they lead. Pretend you are watching a movie in your mind. Observe rather than control.
Finish your mediation by once again paying attention to your breath. Breath in and out several times before opening your eyes. Have a notebook or piece of paper and pen nearby so you can write about your experience.
Meditating for a few minutes everyday is more beneficial than only doing it sporadically. The more often you practice this mediation, the easier it will become.
