Easy Meditation to Relieve Mental Stress

Today’s world is one of stress, time constraints and anxiety. So many people are juggling between hectic work lives, providing for the family, and balancing family/social interactions.

We unknowingly accumulate stress, fatigue and mental pressure in our day-to-day lives. Over time, if not dealt with, these can lead to a low quality of life and even physical illnesses.

We cannot quit our city lives and migrate to the Himalayas; but we can definitely take action to relieve the mental pressure, while living harmoniously in this modern world.

First of all, let’s take a brief look at the characteristics of the human mind. Our mind has 3 basic dimensions – Past, Present and Future.

The Past dimension holds memories of our lives – our life stories, our achievements, our background etc. This dimension gives us the Power of Memory.

While the Past is necessary for us to function normally in society (have a name, a job, know who are our friends and family etc), it also serves as a breeding ground for worries and fears, stumbling blocks to success and self degeneration. Why is this so?

Most of the times, our minds are stuck in the Past dimension – bearing a grudge against somebody, fearing to take certain action due to bad experiences, comparing circumstances now and before, projecting expectations into the future etc. All these actions are examples of operating in the Past dimension, and while we always have to live in the present moment (it is all we have at anytime anyway!) stress is created.

People with minds living in the Past dimension are usually victims to their own ego and societal image. They are their own worst enemies because they constantly hold themselves up to the past images and achievements. The Past has events which make up an identity for us on Earth – we can call it False Identity for ease. Why False Identity?

Because, all that really ever matters, is who you are, at any given moment.
Why do all the Gurus and Spiritual Masters in the world teach us to live in the Present if we want to achieve bliss and joy?

Because in the Present dimension, and only in this dimension, lies the Power of Wisdom. In is only when we become fully connected to the Present, that we are guided by the Divine Light.

I call it Divine Light because it best resonates with me, most people use their own spiritual terms – God, Jesus, Allah, Buddha etc. To me, all religions originate from one True Source – Divine Light.

By staying in the Present, we erase all stress from holding up expectations, hating somebody, behaving unconsciously, we have excellent problem solving skills, and we eliminate fear. Such is the power of becoming one with the Moment.

The Future dimension holds the power of Imagination for us. This also has positive and negative categories – our imagination can be for the better or the worst. When we think and expect the future to hold danger for us, we live in fear and worry. We stop ourselves from taking certain action, and in most cases achieving the fullest potential.

How to start your day living in the full Present:

The moment you open your eyes in bed, do not rush to get up and jump into the usual flow of activities. Take 5 minutes to connect with your breath.

First of all, ask yourself this question “Who am I?”

You don’t have to be stressed at thinking of an answer; there is no right or wrong answer. The objective of the question is to bring your awareness to your true self.

Next ask “What is my purpose, what am I here to do?”

Again, this is supposed to be done in a relaxed and light hearted manner. And while you ask yourself these 2 questions, be aware of every single breath you take. Be aware of your heartbeat, your chest and stomach moving with each breath. This action brings you in sync and connection with your True Self. You will begin the day in a much calmer and stable manner, rather than just jumping out of bed and rushing into the day.

Another very good way to connect with the Present is to be with Nature. When surrounded by Nature, it is difficult not to be Present. Simply by watching a flower, a tree, or sitting quietly in a park looking at sunset will bring your full awareness to the Divine Truth.

This is also the Divine Light which created the world, everything around us and us! This Divine Light, as you will slowly discover later, is also part of you. We all have this Light in us somewhere.

When we begin to start everyday with full consciousness of our breath and being, it becomes easier to stay in the present, or return when the Mind wanders. And as we start to lead our lives more and more in the Present moment, life becomes less stressful, and much more dynamic.

(C) Copyright 2008 - 2010, Linda Loo