quiet mind meditation

laughter meditation ... so good .. hahaha!

2012-01-30T02:15:00.000-08:00

Innovation in Airports (finally!)

2012-01-28T02:46:00.000-08:00

In a 'previous life' I travelled often. Every time I have had to travel overseas (remembering that Australia is a very long way from Europe and the US) .. I wished for some ‘space’ during stopovers and transfers.

Airports are full of urgency, the drama of goodbye and hello, noise and frenetic activity, tired and anxious travellers .. and of course waiting and .. well waiting!

On many occasions I have asked the Universe: ‘why can’t they provide one room for us to get away .. to find some quiet and meditate?’ .. imagining how fantastic (and beneficial for everyone) it would be. How hard really? offering one room for weary travellers to step away from the florescent lights, security and piped muzak (and throng of travellers) .. and reconnect with self .. a 15-minute ‘quiet time’.

Today I read that San Francisco International airport has opened up a yoga room and the Berman Reflection Room ‘for harried travellers seeking a moment of peace .. providing a center for quiet self-reflection and meditation’ with dimmed lights (to soothe the spirit), a glass wall (to provide a sound barrier from the noisy terminal) and a Zen rock garden.

Melissa Mizell, design director for Gensler, the architecture firm behind Terminal 2, said in a statement that the room “gives modern travelers a space that fosters and supports quiet and reflection,” (MSNBC reports).

“The whole theme .. was adding back a sense of humanity to travel,” said Charles Schuler, SFO’s associate deputy director of communications and marketing. “Adding a yoga room seemed like a natural extension.”

Ahmen!

clear starlit sky ..

2012-01-23T13:52:00.000-08:00

I am down the coast at the moment. Besides the fantastic beaches and crystal clear blue water .. last night we sat on the balcony and watched the magnificent blanket of stars above us.

In the city .. you don't really see stars like that!

We need to get outside of the chaos of the busy city lights and the glare of millions of people's lives ... to truly see the stars.

Just like meditation. We need to clear away the noise, the random thoughts, the crazy-speak we have playing on reply in our minds .. step away from that .. and you gain a clarity of mind that is breathtaking .. like the stars.

"we are the beings who came spinning out of nothing-ness, sprinkling stars like dust!" Rumi

Deepak Chopra is currently in India for the Jaipur Literature Festival. He quoted this Rumi wisdom during an address about doing less - to accomplish more. After last nights star show, his thoughts really resonated this morning.

"Do as nature does - less .. if you do nothing, you accomplish everything," he stated. "Trying hard, as Oscar Wilde said, is the last refuge of the failure."

Instead, focus on the four levels of experience - being, feeling, thinking, doing. "To experience being, let's be silent for a moment," said the guru - and a thousand people sat in a hush. "When you become aware of that silence, that's being,".

"Feeling is love, equanimity and joy. Thinking is creative action. And doing is raj-yoga, karma-yoga, gyan-yoga."

And what about daily stress?

"Stress happens when you look to others for your identity," Chopra answered. "My message is, just take it easy! Understand who the heck you are - how magnificent you are!

"When you go beyond the banality of everyday experience and see the huge, magnificent backdrop to life, you will never be stressed."

We will be watching the stars again tonight .. hopefully I can shown my daughter a shooting star!

Let's Explore Meditation together ..

2012-01-21T17:22:00.000-08:00

Over the last few months of 2011, I sought out some feedback from those attending meditation classes to see if I could find out what else I might be able to do/provide to assist them in starting a regular meditation practice. I passionately believe that meditation is a life skill that everyone should learn .. with quite amazing short term and long term benefits gained from stillness and quiet (mind and body).

The most consistent feedback I received was .. that everyone wanted more time to practice in a group/class setting.

I totally get this. The group experience is very supportive and nourishing when we are learning something new .. there is an opportunity to share experiences, ask questions (even asking them again and again until you find your answer), the time is already scheduled in our diary (so we have persmission to stop and meditate) .. and there is someone to guide us (at least part of the way) ..

So I have now expanded the Exploring Meditation program to six weeks (previously it was five) to allow for more 'space' and 'time' for practice. I am resisting the urge to include more detail in preference for more .. flow.

So, if you are keen to learn more about meditation .. and get lots of practical experience in a supportive group environment .. JOIN US!

EXPLORING MEDITATION

(a 6-Week Beginners Program)

Tue. 7th February (6.30 - 8.00pm) : Parkdale
~ or ~
Wed. 8th February (6.30 - 8.00pm) : Black Rock
Meditation is an amazingly effective life skill that enhances our sense of wellbeing and provides us with practical techniques to manage stress and find balance. Meditation is also quite simple to learn and this unique program is designed to explore a number of simple and widely practiced meditation techniques – so you find the best practice for you!

This is a straightforward, practical and non-religious approach to meditation ~ which is also great fun! Meeting regularly once a week across six weeks provides us with an opportunity to get ‘into the flow’ of meditation, and gain an insight to the benefits found in a regular meditation practice. We provide handouts each week also, so that you can build your own Meditation Workbook. No special requirements for class other than an intention to learn more about meditation. LIMITED TO TWELVE PARTICIPANTS. Exploring Meditation Program is $175 ($165 each if you book with a friend).

Our six week Exploring Meditation Program looks something like this:

* Week 1 : core meditation principals, the ‘how’ and ‘why’, Body Awareness practices
* Week 2 : the impact of stress, short meditative exercises & longer practices (both invaluable), Breath practices

* Week 3 : the brain, the process of meditation, Mantra and Affirmation practices

* Week 4 : obstacles and antidotes, measuring your progress, Mindfulness practices
* Week 5 : starting your own daily meditation practice, resources, Stillness practices
* Week 6 : going it alone, resources, and more practice!

If you would like more information or to book a place : info@quietmind.com.au

Re~leas~ing

2012-01-20T20:53:00.000-08:00

Here is a peek!

Of my very secret place .. a place of special memories, childhood adventures, ease and carefree living .. the place where nature envelopes me ..

One of my 2012 Intentions (did I tell you?) was 'Releasing' .. the wonder and magic of Intentions (as opposed to Resolutions) is that once they find you/or you select them .. they begin to infuse all the many areas of your life. I intend to hold 'Releasing' as one of my focuses for 2012. Releasing to me is a reminder to 'let go' .. seriously one of the hardest things to live, learn and do! .. releasing old thoughts, releasing old patterns or behaviours, releasing old emotions .. as well as worn out 'stuff', possibly relationships, definitely outmoded or negative beliefs .. ahh ..

A regular meditation practice of course shows us the courage required to 'let go' .. always we are reminded .. let go (of the breathe) let go (of the body) let go (of thoughts) and finally .. just let go! So my meditation practice will continue to remind me .. release .. release ...

And this week I decided it was time to release a few things : the clinging, controlling and anxiety inducing need to stay connected to my computer/desk/home office. Often I have felt that nasty feeling that if I took a breathe, or stepped away from 'work' then I would be irresponsible, lose money or miss out on something 'important'. Plus when you work for yourself there is this incessant pull to work all hours .. 24/7 .. to the detriment of self and family ..

So .. I escaped.

I decamped. Took leave. Pack up what little I needed and headed down the coast. While the laptop came with me, it resided at home while I headed out into the sunshine, drawn to the turquoise waters and the glaringly golden sand.

And I leart again to .. let go.

I let my body fall heavily into the sand. I let my breathe fall gently into a rhythmn in tune with the water all around me. I let the sunshine seep deeply through me, into bones and cells and chi. I let my mind give over to the sound of the waves lapping at my feet. And I let it all go for hours and hours.

(note to self : nothing was lost, work got completed later that night, no urgent calls or urgent messages .. in fact further note to self : two new opportunities popped up!)

Releasing .. such a powerful action .. one requiring a little faith and courage .. and one required if we seek to know freedom ...
re·leas·ing :
~ to set free from confinement, restraint, or bondage: released the prisoners.
~ to free from something that binds, fastens, or holds back; let go

first peek above the tea-tree

Buddha Standard Time

2012-01-18T20:28:00.000-08:00

[Picture : Dream Filled Photography]

Funny how everyone always laments 'lack of time' .. especially when we hope/wish/intend to do something worthwhile and good for us .. yet .. never .. quite .. find .. enough .. time ... where does it go?

One book I pre-ordered for my summer reading list 2012 is Buddha Standard Time by Lama Surya Das (one of my favourite writers and inspirational teachers .. perhaps I should attest to a slight obsession for his books, they fill my bookcase, I give copies a gifts, I read late at night when I can't sleep or need clarification .. ).

"In Buddha Standards Time you will come to realize that, in spite of your hectic days you have much more time than you think. In fact, you have all the time in the world".

I am only part way through the book .. as I am trying to relish rather than digest .. and I make a few notes, take time for a few practices, think/reflect a little.

".. you will learn to synchronize with the rhythms and cycles of nature, including your own mind and body, cells and tissues, and neural pathways. You will learn how to slow down or accelarate time, to have richer relationships, a more productive work life, and much less stress".

Many of the meditative exercises (or as Lama Das calls them 'Mindful Moments' exercises) are simple, brief practices that allow us to pause and refresh .. I LOVE these practices and always include these in any meditation instruction that I give. Not everyone can find the time for a more traditional meditation practice .. but we can all find moments! I have included one such exercise below .. try it .. right now .. go on .. I dare you!

Breathing Fire

Take a deep breath,
entirely filling your lower belly ..
and then release the breath with a huge whoosh of relief.
Rapidly repeat this breath of fire seven times,
or even twenty-one times, harmonizing your midna nd body and energy.
And then let your breath settle naturally,
allowing the gentle tide of breathing to wash in and out
through your being; relax entirely
and just be.

(From Buddha Standard Time by Lama Surya Das)

Silence and Solitude .. and Sarah McLean (Sedona Meditation)

2012-01-16T16:58:00.000-08:00

"Solitude. It's your chance for yourself to talk to you.

And you're so worth that time."

Mary Casey

One of the things I do love about Facebook and social networking is that I get the chance to wake up each morning and easily tap into the lives, thoughts and events of friends all around the world. I woke this morning and had some time reconnect with Sarah McLean (Sedona Meditation) which was the perfect way to spend a leisurely hour before embarking on the day (besides it is 35degrees here today, very hot and very windy .. a day for a bit of stillness).

Sarah McLean was in Australia in April 2011 and prior to her arrival made contact .. we had been emailing for a few years and I always love reading her newsletter Inward Bound .. so we arranged for Sarah to give a very special Everyday Meditation Workshop at the Langham Hotel in Melbourne. It was a wonderful evening and it was awesome to finally meet Sarah and talk 'meditation' with her.

The quote above came from Sarah via her Facebook account .. and then I read the article she had also attached .. both of which I wanted to share with everyone here at Quiet Mind Meditation.

Is Silence and Solitude Good for You : Boulder Daily Camera

Also .. to let you know that Sarah is conducting a live free webinar on Thursday January 19th at 2:00pm Eastern Standard Time. Making Meditation Work For You with Sarah McLean - to register go here

And to give you the 'heads up' that Sarah is putting the final touches to her new book which I hope to tell you more about soon. And I suspect we may see Sarah back in Australia in the future.

So everyone .. that was my morning today .. then I did a 20-minute meditation, listening to the howling wind outside my window and the wind chimes tinkling in the backyard .. and then it was time for my one and only latte .. enjoy your day!

Inspiring Quote ...

2012-01-16T08:04:00.000-08:00

May your mind transcend limitations.

May your consciousness expand in every direction.

May you discover yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed yourself to be.

Patanjali

Is Learning to Meditate one of your 2012 Intentions?

2012-01-15T16:24:00.000-08:00

Before 'busyness' becomes ingrained in your 2012 life .. before the ease and balance of summer break wears off .. isn't it time to find some tools to better manage stress and achieve deeper states of relaxation?

Now is an ideal time to find out a little more about meditation .. and put in place a wellness routine that will support mind and body.

For the next two days only (until Tuesday 6pm) .. our friends at Bellabuy are promoting our private (single, couple or two friends) meditation session .. an opportunity to learn a little more about meditation .. experience a deeply relaxing guided meditation and also take home some practical tools for releasing stress ..

www.bellabuy.com.au

Pebble for Your Pocket Meditation

2012-01-13T19:00:00.000-08:00

Mindfulness is an ancient practice that simply requires us to attend non-judgementally to the present moment (rather than bouncing around between past, present and future .. the open spaceland of non attention).

When we rest our focus in the present moment .. everything seems to slow down, we really ‘see’ what is happening in our life, we can be more open in heart and mind. Mindfulness practices teach us how to simply focus on being present .. to the breath, the movement of our body as we walk, the wind in our hair, the sun on our face .. the sounds around us.

In this mindfulness practice Thich Nhat Hahn, the Zen Buddhist monk suggests that we go for a walk and find a pebble that we like, and then sit quietly for a while with the pebble in our hand:

"Dear Buddha,

Here is my pebble. I am going to practice with it when things go wrong during the day. Whenever I am angry or upset, I will take the pebble in my hand and breathe deeply. I will do this until I calm down."

(of course you don't have to include the Buddha or anyone else if you don't wish to .. trust in what feels right for you.)

We place our pebble in our pocket and it travels with us wherever we go. At any time during the day, if we find ourselves stressed, angry or upset, we put our hand in our pocket, take hold of the pebble, and remind ourselves to just breathe .. “Breathing in, I notice that I feel stress. Breathing out, I release all stress and holding and invite in ease and calmness”.

This YouTube meditation from Thich Nhat Hahn includes four pebbles :

#1 : reminds us to be ‘fresh like a flower’ : breathing in ‘fresh’ and breathing out ‘I am a flower’

#2 : reminds us that we can choose to be stable and solid in mind, emotions, thoughts and love : breathing in ‘solid’ and breathing out ‘like a mountain’

#3 : reminds us of the power of still water, that our mind are like a still lake reflecting all our actions, thoughts and anxieties. It is when we are still of mind and body that we are able to see what is really happening within us: breathing in ‘water/stillness’ and breathing out ‘reflecting’

#4 : reminds us of spaciousness, a quality that we can rest within and offer to others : breathing in ‘spaciousness’ within and around us and breathing out ‘I am free’.

I really like the inclusion of touch awareness in meditation .. carrying your pebbles (each carrying an intention .. a reminder) so that you have something solid and ‘at hand’ for your journey.

You can find loads of meditations from Thich Nhat Hahn on YouTube, or search out his many books , or visit his website Plum Village. [Picture Stack Stones by etcwhatever]

Meditation in the news ...

2012-01-11T19:36:00.000-08:00

I am still (partially) on summer-ease time .. a couple of meditation classes under my belt this week and surprisingly ample time to catch up on my reading. Here are two interesting articles that appeared in my inbox this week:

Mindfulness Meditation Helps Rheumatoid Arthritis

A new study published by the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases suggests that practicing mindfulness meditation reduces stress and fatigue associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

The study evaluated 67 rheumatoid arthritis patients and randomly assigned participants to either 10 group sessions of mindfulness exercises over 15 weeks, plus a booster session 6 months, or to a standard care plan with a CD of mindfulness exercises for home use. The mindfulness sessions included exercises using music, drawing and guided imagery.

Results : those who attended the sessions showed less stress and fatigue – scoring lower stress scores a the one year mark follow up. Fatigue levels also were significantly reduced.

The authors of the study “indicate that the participants may have incorporated some mindfulness strategies into their daily lives and that these strategies have strengthened their ability to respond to their stressful experience in a more flexible way,”.

Meditation isn't just for hippies any more. And it's not all about saying ommmm

An insightful interview from Time magazine with Jon Kabat-Zinn, the molecular biologist who began meditating when the practice was a little woo-woo. Now, roll forward forty years and we can see his efforts have been paramount to where meditation sits today, with dozens of studies showing the benefits of his MBSR program (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) which has been running at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center for 32 years.

(Now I have another book to add to my summer reading as Kabat-Zinn has released Mindfulness for Beginners to introduce meditation to first-timers).

Kabat-Zinn started his Stress Reduction Clinic in 1979 where outpatients attend an eight-week course that introduces mindfulness .. a practice of ‘paying attention’.

Massachusetts General Hospital have conducted recent studies that show that eight weeks of MBSR can actually produce thickening in particular regions of the brain important for learning, memory, executive decision-making and perspective-taking (which are vital when experiencing stress or pain); and a thining of the areas that involve threat and fear. After only eight weeks!

Kabat-Zinn notes that “Mindfulness is not about getting anywhere else — it’s about being where you are and knowing it. We are talking about awareness itself: a whole repertoire of ways of knowing that virtually all come through the senses. "My definition of healing is coming to terms with things as they are, so that you can do whatever you can to optimize your potential, whether you are living with chronic pain or having a baby. You can’t control the universe, so mindfulness is involves learning to cultivate wisdom and equanimity— not passive resignation—in the face of what Zorba the Greek called the full catastrophe of the human condition".

He also suggests that you meditate for a good 15minutes “long enough so that you get really bored and antsy and learn how to make room for unpleasant moments.” .. this is sooooo true and so avoided!

Intentions or Resolutions ..

2012-01-03T20:06:00.000-08:00

Before the year gets off and running .. I like to spend some time meditating and reflecting on the dreams, hopes and 'potentiality' of the brand new year ahead. I like the 'fresh new page' feel of this time.

Since I was a teenager I have gone through this process .. being quiet, reflecting, meditating and dreaming .. and over the years been inspired to create vision boards, write down lists, and journal my thoughts (many of which I still have tucked away).

In recent years I have moved towards Intentions rather than Resolutions or Goals .. Intentions somehow feel softer and more expansive, a 'flavour' or vision I hope will permeate and colour all aspects of my life.

In 2011 I had a single word that resonated with my thoughts for the coming year .. ‘Abundance’ .. a worthy and wise word that asked me to remember that there is always much to be grateful for, more than enough in the world for us all .. and to joyfully seek abundance in all areas of my life.

This week I have been avidly following a couple of excellent blogs .. which have nourished and expanded my own process ..

Susan Piver’s The Week of Inward Looking (‘Live your authentic life in 2012 : 7 days, 7 Teachers, 7 Questions’) which you can follow on Facebook or go to Susan's blog here : has provided much rich and thought provoking content, with input from around the world and some amazingly deep questions posed and responded to. The question posed yesterday by Seth Godin 'Has my art been brave enough?' has definitely resonated with one of my intentions.

And the gorgeous Nadine Fawell who inspires once again with her Two Words Project .. a place to share, explore and support our 2012 Two Word Intentions. You can find more on Facebook or by visiting Nadine's blog here .. (Note: Nadine is also leading a workshop in Melbourne on the 14 Jan to help you to find your two words - you can find out more on her blog).

Interestingly (but not surprisingly) I find that two words have been actively floating around my daily life, popping up in the funniest of places, coming to mind in meditation, and literally jumping off the pages I read .. and my 2012 Intentions are now almost decided!

Are you setting intentions or resolutions for 2012?

"The best time to plant a tree .. was 20 years ago.
The next best time .. is NOW"
(Chinese Proverb)

(picture above from Iyanla Vanzart)

Is it time? Meditation .. a life skill!

2011-12-26T03:55:00.000-08:00

Are you seeking a deeper sense of quiet and stillness after the frenetic festive season?

Has 'learn to meditate' been one of your long unfulfilled New Years Resolutions?

Well .. perhaps the time has arrived!

Learning to meditate is one of the greatest investment you can make towards improved wellness and peacefulness .. the ancient (& time tested) practice of meditation assists us to self manage stress, relax when we need to, gain greater clarity and balance and find a happier view of the world!

The benefits of meditation are immeasurable, and often experienced right from the start .. PLUS it is an easy skill to learn.

So .. if you are keen find out more about the 'art and the science of meditation' .. join us this January 2012:

PLACES STILL AVAILABLE!

New Year Meditation
Parkdale Yacht Club
Tue 3 Jan 2012
7 - 8pm ($20)
Guided meditations for an hour of gentle relaxation and ease, with the sound of the bay outside and seagulls surfing the wind.

Half Day Summer Meditation Retreat
Parkdale Yacht Club
Tue 10 Jan 2012
9.30am - 12.30pm ($75)
We shall explore a range of guided meditation practices and brief meditative exercises to deeply relax the body, calm the mind and awaken the senses. We shall also share tea and sunshine .. and a few laughs as well.

Let us start our New Year in the best possible way .. with calmness, clarity and focus.

LIMITED NUMBERS : REGISTRATION ESSENTIAL : info@quietmind.com.au

To you ...

2011-12-22T16:45:00.000-08:00

Deep Peace

of the running wave to you

Deep Peace

of the flowing air to you

Deep Peace

of the quiet earth to you

Deep Peace

of the shining stars to you

Deep Peace

of the gentle night to you,

moon and stars

pour their healing light on you

Deep Peace to you

(a Gaelic Blessing) from the CD Album: Deep Peace

Label: Hearts of Space

Bill Douglas and ARS Nova Singers

Oprah .. and meditation

2011-12-21T02:47:00.000-08:00

(pic from Elevated Existence blog)

From the Elevated Existence blog today .. word that Oprah Winfrey is coming back to television AND that she is talking about the benefits unfolding from her daily meditation practice.

Oprah's new show will start (in the US on her OWN Network) on New Year’s Day .. Oprah says that her return to television is directed by the fact that “I miss .. talking to people”.

On meditation .. she spoke of how she and her staff “have begun meditating daily after visiting a town in Iowa where one third of the entire town is focused on transcendental meditation. “You cannot imagine what’s happened in my company,” as a result of meditation, Oprah explained.

“People who used to have migraines—don’t. People are sleeping better. People have better relationships. The one thing I want to continue to do is to center myself every day and make that a practice for myself because I am 1000 percent better when I do that—when I take myself back to something bigger than myself.”

Maybe we shall see meditation become the hip new 'thing' in 2012 .. if we don't count the last 2500 years, across countries, traditions and people!

The Gift That Keeps On Giving ..

2011-12-17T20:36:00.000-08:00

Almost everyone finds it a little 'easier' to meditate/relax/rest/let go when they are guided by someone else.

There is something about handing over the reigns .. not needing to do anything..

That was the reason behind Find The Stillness CD .. and the constant requests by class participants to 'take me home'.

Suitable for those new to meditation or those with no interest in meditation but a desire to find a little stillness and ease in life .. the CD has two longer guided practices and two really easy, billiantly relaxing and portable short meditative exercises.

You can't go wrong really .. that's the long and the short of it!

"Just wanted to let you know that I loved doing the CD meditations. My daughter (aged 12) used the meditations on an international flight (she does not enjoying flying at all) and felt this really worked for her. And it has been great to reconnect with my practice again" (Beth)

"Loved the 9 Round Breathing Technique, I've been having an issue with winding my brain down when I go to bed and I've done this for the last few nights and it has really helped calm my mind, it feels awesome!" (Cara) We can have our CD (beautifully wrapped and only $20) in the mail to you this week for the ultimate Christmas gift .. peace and calmness ..

email Sarah info@quietmind.com.au

Be Courageous

2011-12-13T01:58:00.000-08:00

Life is busy this time of year .. all the festivities, shopping, preparing and caring .. even with the best intentions .. sometimes we simply do not find our way to the meditation cushion .. and that's ok!

It's then we must learn to be kind and gentle to ourselves .. and courageous ..

for there is always tomorrow ..

rest. be still. breathe.

2011-12-11T02:28:00.000-08:00

At this busy time of the year ..

amidst all the celebrations, noise and chatter ..

finding time to simply be still and reflect is vital to our health and wellbeing

Have you scheduled any time .. just for YOU?

JOIN US .. by the beach with the setting sun and water lapping the sand .. an hour to pause and be still

Two guided meditations, with ample space for just sitting,
reconnecting and refreshing before the next step towards Christmas

Tue 13th December

Parkdale Yacht Club

6.30pm - 7.30pm

Christmas 'Chill' Hour $20

REGISTRATION ESSENTIAL TO
sarah@quietmind.com.au

Gwen Stefani & meditation

2011-12-10T01:48:00.000-08:00

It is always great to read about the 'personalities' that practice meditation .. the more discussions and declarations about the amazing practice of meditation,the greater awareness and acceptance.

From MindBodyGreen today an article about Gwen Stefani the 42-year-old rock-star and mother to two boys .. someone who juggles a lot and was asked how she dealt with everyday stress? Meditation!

Gwen is quoted as saying: "Meditation is my thing"

.. and finding that quiet spot to meditate? "I'm not going to lie: sometimes I go into my closet and lock the door so no one can find me."

A sweet deal .. learn more about meditation

2011-11-29T17:19:00.000-08:00

Is it time to find out a little more about meditation? time to learn how to self manage some of that stress you carry around?

For one week only .. visit our friends at Bellabuy for a special Christmas offering (for yourself or perhaps the ideal gift).

.. an opportunity to learn a little more about meditation .. experience a deeply relaxing guided meditation and also take home some practical tools for releasing stress .. a great place to start!

www.bellabuy.com.au

Join Us .. Christmas Concert

2011-11-24T15:24:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to be part of the Meditation Events Christmas Concert.

A special evening of inspiring music and guided meditation at the beautiful Augustine Centre (Hawthorn).

A moment to pause and refresh amidst the busyness of the festive season.

Bookings and info at www.meditationevents.com.au

Golf .. and meditation

2011-11-16T16:06:00.000-08:00

Tiger Woods is currently on the green just down the road from me (The Presidents Cup in Melbourne). There are loads of buses, courtesy cars, and official vehicles moving around our normally quiet suburban streets .. and the sun is shining its very best.

Reminded me of a recent article I had read about an iPhone App that was designed to ‘Improve Your Golf Mind’ using visualization and meditation.

The creator of the App once played against Tiger Woods and was astounded by Tiger’s mental edge on the green, “I could never figure out how he could remain so calm under pressure.”

He later found this quote by Tiger, “My mother’s a Buddhist. In Buddhism, if you want to achieve enlightenment, you have to do it through meditation and self-improvement through the mind. That’s something she passed on to me: to be able to calm myself down and use my mind as my main asset.”

So all you golfer’s out there ... are you meditating?

Join Us .. Group Meditation

2011-11-11T18:53:00.000-08:00

I shall be leading the next guided meditation session on:

Monday 14th November

Elwood, Melbourne

from 7.30pm-8.30pm

Two guided meditations and room for some silence

at Simply Silence

a casual meditation group

an hour

a comfortable seat

taking a breath

easy

no stress

Emotional Intelligence & Meditation

2011-11-10T17:24:00.000-08:00

Following on from my last entry about introducing meditation to staff at Australian legal firm Minter Ellison .. across my desk today is an article from CNN about organisations introducing meditation as part of emotional intelligence (EI) training.

One of the pioneers of EI research was John Mayer, professor of psychology at the University of New Hampshire, who defines EI as “the capacity to reason about emotional information and the capacity of emotional information to enhance thinking”.

Meditation provides us with an opportunity to truly connect with our deepest thoughts, feelings and emotions .. and through this 'listening' we develop a greater understanding of the thoughts that occupy our mind stream (surprisingly not a lot of positive speak!) . People are often surprised by the language and thoughts that they constantly tell themselves .. and often realise that those thoughts are no longer valid or true.

One organisation introduced EI training to assist their employees in becoming "more open and confident, understand their own limitations and fears, and to boost their self-worth and comfort in dealing with other people".

"Attendees get a full EI profile of themselves, which helps break down how they relate to others, their level of empathy, authenticity, and leadership abilities. This information is used to improve their communication with others. The classes also, typically, include meditation or visualization practices."

Article 'Emotional intelligence: The benefits of singing the blues' by Susanne Gargiulo, for CNN : November 9, 2011. Full article here : http://edition.cnn.com/2011/11/09/business/emotional-intelligence-workplace/

Meditation : The New Corporate Wellness Tool

2011-11-09T16:49:00.000-08:00

I recently completed the Introduction to Meditation program with the Melbourne office of leading Australian legal firm, Minter Ellison.

The Minter Ellison ResilientME program is "a co-ordinated and integrated initiative to foster employee wellbeing and reduce the risk of stress and depression in the workplace. The ResilientME program aims to create staff and partner awareness and eliminate the stigma associated with depression/stress. The program looks at prevention strategies to ensure staff and partners lead healthy lives and provide the skills to recognise depression/stress so that staff are able to assist colleagues, family and friends suffering from this condition".

The Minter Ellison team enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to swap their desks for an hour of stillness each week; reflecting the growing number of professionals seeking practical tools to self manage stress and develop greater mental and physical health.

Harvard Business School recently declared that "meditation and intuition are the two most valuable executive tools for the 21st century".

You don’t need to be a lawyer or corporate professional to feel the negative effects of high levels of work stress, and the overwhelming cost it takes on our life. A recent national poll commissioned by Lifeline Australia found that 91% of adult Australians feel stress in at least one important area of their lives, and more alarmingly, 41% of Australians indicated they were experiencing unhealthy levels of stress. The usual list of culprits appeared: Work was cited by 72% of respondents as a primary cause of stress, Finances 67%, Thoughts about the Future 67%, Health 55% and Personal Relationships 41%.

So .. how wonderful to share my passion for meditation back in the corporate sector where I spent most of my career. And many Australian organisations (large and small) are now stepping up and implementing employee wellness programs; from gym memberships and lunchtime exercise sessions, to onsite health checks and massage services. Corporate leaders and HR specialists are realising that there is a duty of care owed to employees that extends beyond just a physically safe work environment.

A 2009 study by Dr Ramesh Manocha at Sydney University found occupational stress decreased by 26 per cent after eight weeks of meditation.

Benefits of Meditation for Business

• Reduction in Stress - Stress costs companies millions every year in lost productivity, sick leave and inefficiency. Studies show that meditating professionals achieve more with less effort and experience significant improvements in physical and mental health.

• Improved immune system, overall physical and mental health – which leads to decreased sick days, absenteeism and dis-engagement.

• Increased productivity, energy and concentration levels – developing a stronger and more focused mind builds the potential for greater clarity, decision making and problem resolution.

• Enhanced creative thought and intuition – the potential competitive edge for any organisation in today’s global marketplace.

• Retention of high performing employees and generally higher worker satisfaction and engagement and greater office and team harmony.

On-site meditation programs provide an opportunity for employees to learn some practical, simple and time honoured meditation practices that are vital for coping with our modern day, high velocity lives. It is a constant delight to witness the sigh of relief when employees are able to ‘put down their load’, take a breath and recharge. Meditation is a life skill, and everyone can learn to meditate .. even in the office!

“Reminds me of the need to take time for myself / benefits of taking time out for other areas of life including work”

“It helps to learn techniques which can help you switch off, re-energise, and to just breathe. This assists in managing stress, and coping with a heavy workload.”

“Gave me time out and enabled me to learn different styles of meditation. An educational and enjoyable experience - learning strategies to maintain calmness and wellbeing".

Final Meditation Classes for 2011

2011-11-04T22:16:00.000-07:00

Can you feel the momentum starting to pull you towards summer .. end of year .. and Christmas?

Even if one could ignore the proliferation of red and green decorator items in the supermarket .. I can feel the racing of time as I am suddenly confirming dates for celebratory drinks, work functions and end of year reviews, summer holiday plans and christmas puddings (thats my job!)

.. and this weekend the sun shining high in the sky .. reminding us that Australia's hot summer is almost upon us ..

Need to find the 'pause' button in your busy life?

Often the summer holidays are the only 'off' time that people allow themselves .. and I know because I used to be one of those people! The Christmas week was like an enforced holiday that I had no choice over, and I would literally collapse on the couch/beach/poolside trying to relax and release a years worth of accumulated stress.

Is it time to recharge the batteries?

Waiting all year for the annual leave holiday .. is not healthy or helpful in managing rising stress levels. Inevitably we spend the first few days managing the extra-frantic parties and celebrations, then there are a few days to relax (if we can) .. before we start ramping up again for the new year.

But there is a much better option for managing stress and deeply relaxing the mind and body .. meditation!

Is it time to learn about meditation and start your own practice?
Our final EXPLORING MEDITATION programs are starting next week .. just in time before time really does rush away from us into Christmas. This is a five week program designed to assist you in starting your own meditation practice. We explore a range of meditation techniques, the 'how' and the 'why', experience guided meditations and silent practices, and clear away any questions.

Research clearly shows that learning to calm ourselves and manage our stress positively influences our inner biochemistry .. improving physical and emotional health, providing more restful sleep and giving us greater 'life' energy .. as well as increasing our ability to cultivate positive emotions.

IF NOT NOW, WHEN?

Tue 8th November @ Parkdale Yacht Club : 6.30pm-8.00pm (sunset free of charge)

Wed 9th November @ EmPowerMe (Black Rock) : 6.30pm-8.00pm

Meditation and Tinnitus

2011-11-01T03:50:00.000-07:00

I have met quite a few people who suffer from tinnitus recently.  Over the years a few sufferers have come to my meditation class. It is often not until we get to the silent practices .. that it comes up.  I have tried to do some research over the years .. but there doesn't appear to be much written about meditation and tinnitus. Possibly because for most sufferers .. silence is impossible (and I think some sufferers avoid meditation because of this!).

So, I was happy to receive this weeks newsletter from Wildmind (Buddhist Meditation) with an article Meditating with Tinnitus .. which I would like to recommend for those who do suffer from this 'persistent ringing in the ears'. Go to Meditating with Tinnitus here.

The author is a tinnitus sufferer. She has also been a long time meditation practitioner .. even attending silent retreats!  And so it is wonderful to read her thoughts, and hear about some tools that may help come to terms with the 'white noise inside your head'. One suggestion that the author has found useful (although she does suggest caution as many sufferes might find this counter intuitive and more challenging) is wearing earplugs which act to magnify all inner body sounds together .. so that ‘the tinnitus sounds seem to decrease by comparison, or at least just take their place among my body’s other normal noises. I find I can simply welcome them to the party’.

Similar to pain meditation, people often expect their pain/noise to be in a constant ON/OFF situation which is rarely the case. Noise, like pain, changes all the time and often falls into a pattern or wave .. once we realise this and recognise that in between the noise/pain is no noise/no pain .. then we can relax a little knowing what to expect.

Using sound in your meditation is another popular option.  I have a few natural ambient CDs in my collection (the dolphin and mountain river are my two favourites) .. incorporating these sounds into your meditation practice, as another anchor, might allow you to continue with your normal practice (such as breath counnting or mantra).   Please do keep trying with your meditation .. whatever our obstacle or challenge, once we find a technique that works for us we should trust in our own experience .. and keep practicing.

Any suggestions would be welcome!

Monday Meditation Musings

2011-10-30T18:22:00.000-07:00

I recently realised that we were coming up to the two year anniversairy of Monday Meditation Musings!

This is such a real milestone for me .. who would have thought .. some simple thoughts (ie musings) about meditation that are now shared with a tribe of readers extending across the globe .. and in return I am receive regular emails from you all about your own meditation practice and thoughts (keep them coming, I love to hear from everyone).

I wrote the first 50 or so Musings when inspiration tapped me on the shoulder .. like being drawn outside for a bit of sunshine that would inspired me to meditate and then I would write something about Meditating Barefoot in The Grass (Feb 2010); or a weekend away down the coast inspired a Musing on Present Moment Awareness (Jan 2010). Then, when I wanted to explore a little deeper into some other meditation traditions .. the Chakra series (Nov 2010 to Jan 2011), and the Kundalini and Metta practices that followed.

For the past month I have been looking at some of the common challenges found when starting and maintaining a meditation practice. We have all been there .. I promise! Sometimes life is just too full of 'other stuff' and there never seems to be the time to extract ourselves from the busy ness. Sometimes we feel guilty taking time out, even when we know it makes us feel better and live better. It is good to know that we all share some of these challenges .. and that there might be an antidote that we can share as well.

.. and so my intention lately has been to ‘fling open the window and bring our concerns into the bright and warm spring weather .. to explore the best way to handle the Challenges of Meditation’. So far we have looked at the first four challenges that came to mind :

#1 Procrastination
#2 Not Preparing a Meditation Space
#3 Not Reflecting on your Intention

#4 Not committing to a Time
And, I suspect there will be another dozen challenges (at least) that will have their time in the bright spring light.

If you would like a little meditation inspiration and motivation sent to your inbox each Monday morning .. JOIN UP by emailing me at sarah@quietmind.com.au ..

And please let me know about what challenges you in your meditation practice?

'My body travels. I never leave home'

2011-10-29T00:57:00.000-07:00

About a year ago I chased down Sarah Wilson’s blog because I loved her weekly column in Sunday Life magazine .. a weekly journey to finding out how to have a better life.

And I love reading her blog because there is so much interesting ‘stuff’ out there in the world that Sarah shares with us, in such a way that I am intrigued, challenged and broadened, and also because I am a little in awe of her ‘better life’ .. a life that I dream about when I am tediously tired of my own (lately .. often) . eg. Sarah is currently living in Byron Bay (swoon) after de-camping from her Sydney beachside home, garage sale-ing most of her possessions in line with ‘better life’ de-cluttering (swoon) .. she rides a vintage bike about Byron, and has a deep and passionate interest in food and eating for wellness .. and is tucked away birthing a new book (double swoon – tucked away and writing a book). Then of course she gets to meet, research and write about amazingly interesting people (for work!). I think she is ‘living the dream’ .. but I digress.

What I wanted to share here .. were some words of wisdom that emerged from Sarah’s recent meeting with Deepak Chopra. When Sarah asked Deepak how he manages it all .. the appearances, the travel, the writing, the computer games (another story altogether!) .. Deepak said:

“My body travels. I never leave home.”

And that is so brilliant! A little like a new mantra (although it also sounds a little like a New Age car sticker) .. but these words totally resonated. This is something I ‘know’ and believe. This is what meditation has shown me. MEDITATION is said to come from two Latin words; ‘medio’ which means CENTRE and ‘sto’ meaning TO STAND; so in meditation we learn to stand in our centre. When we are truly in our centre, then we can stand in the thick of life, in amongst the busyness, noise and competing demands .. grounded in the understanding of self and stillness within.

We might be in ‘the eye of a tornado’ but meditation shows us that we need never leave home; wherever the body might be travelling, consciousness can stand in that centre of absolute peace and calmness.

I love it when words of wisdom jump out at us .. at the most unexpected times.

Read more at Sarah Wilson’s blog at http://www.sarahwilson.com.au/

Guided Meditation

2011-10-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

It is wonderful to hear such positive feedback from happy customers! Find The Stillness has been sailing out to new homes and meditators across Australia .. and every now and then .. delightful news comes home

.. like from Beth who took a CD away on holiday, and left two CDs for housemates to enjoy while she was away :)

"Just wanted to let you know that I loved doing the CD meditations. My daughter (aged 12) used the meditations on an international flight (she does not enjoying flying at all) and felt this really worked for her. And it has been great to reconnect with my practice again" (Beth)

Guided meditations are a great tool for assisting us in continuing our practice .. sometimes it is just nice to 'let go' and allow another voice to guide us. When we are listening to someone there is an element of being respectful and paying attention, and for a short time the mind will let go of its need to be the one in the driving seat.

Find The Stillness $20 contains two short meditative exercises (for everyday stress relief) and two longer guided practices (for deeper, and more restful stillness).

FREE POSTAGE to anywhere in Australia up to Christmas .. if you order via email to info@quietmind.com.au .. just mention Christmas REALLY?

Meditation and Running - Opposites?

2011-10-16T18:39:00.000-07:00

pic: woman jogging blur by arinas74_stock.xchng

I recently wrote an article for Healed .. for those runners and sports-mad folk, who might be interested to learn a little more about how meditation might be a great addition to your training regime!

Healed was created by leading Melbourne based sports podiatrist Anna Beetham .. born after years of frustration with greasy non-effective products & concern that the chemically laden products available to recommend could be harmful to her patients. Made in Melbourne, Healed are all natural and use certified organic ingredients where possible, are never tested on animal's, and come in stylish and environmentally friendly packaging. I LOVE the foot balm!

If you are into your sport .. running, cycling, swimming, whatever .. then Healed is going to be your new best friend .. check out the foot balm, anti chafing balm and blister pack at www.healedonline.com

Meditation and Running – opposites?
Neuroscience has found that people who meditate shift their brain activity from the right frontal cortex (that part of the brain that is prone to stress) to the left frontal cortex (which makes a personal happier and calmer). That sounds like a good enough reason to meditate. But if you have a passion for running, or participate in any sport requiring endurance and high level focus, then consider these interesting facts about meditation:

1. Helps you maintain focus, so when you are training you can actually get the most out of our session by not being distracted with everyday worries about work and family. Long lasting focus and concentration is what meditation is all about.

2. You develop an ability to balance effortless relaxation and applied focus, placing our awareness right in the ‘present moment’ or ‘the zone’. Getting quickly into ‘the zone’ and staying there, quietens the mind, so our effort and our body become more efficient.

3. Researchers in Norway have reported that sportsmen who use meditation after tough training session reduce their production of lactate – that ache-inducing by-product of anaerobic exercise – and recover their fitness levels faster.

4. When mindful of the body we develop a greater awareness of the mind-body connection, gaining a deeper understanding of how we are performing, and also developing our spatial awareness, pain management and overall mental endurance.

5. Muscles grow and get stronger when well rested. A period of meditation post training allows a much deeper type of rest where the body can repair and the mind refresh.

6. “When mindfulness is applied to sports, it brings the mind and the body into a kind of unity” says Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D., professor of medicine emeritus at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and avid runner. Paying attention to the feeling and movement of the breath, the inhalation and exhalation, can bring a sense of centered peaceful awareness. “Running is breath by breath, footfall by footfall, moment by moment.

7. Meditation lowers oxygen consumption, increases blood flow, decreases muscle tension and increases serotonin production (which influences our mood and behaviour.

Running is quite a repetitive activity, one that requires discipline and focus ..qualities that are also found in meditation. So as a runner you may already have the natural inclination and the inherent skill required to start a meditation practice.

A simple body awareness meditation exercise can assist us in understanding the process of relaxation, and provides us with a tool to relax our muscles whenever we need to. A short body awareness exercise prior to a run (and afterwards for recuperation) can greatly enhance our sense of mind-body connection, so that we become more fully engaged with what the body is doing, how it is performing, and understanding its real limits.

Procrastination

2011-10-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

"there are only two mistakes you can make in life.

First mistake is not to take the first step and the second is that having taken the first step

to not go all the way"

(The Buddha)

This is from our Monday Meditation Musing series (free weekly email to inspire your meditation). For the next few weeks we are taking a deeper look into some of the most common mistakes or challenges found when starting (or maintaining) a meditation practice. First, Procrastination ..

Procrastination is when you receive this email .. and your first thought is "I'll get to this later". Todat we are very much living in the 'knowledge age' and we are constantly bombarded with stuff .. details, words, thoughts, sights, sounds .. and many of us have settled into a state of perpetual edginess for the next big thing, the next shift, newness, entertainment value, more fun, more stuff ...

And so we have this constant urge to move on, jump ahead, find something more interesting, something more entertaining ..

But this means we miss the moment we have right now

And we then have to carry around the need to 'come back later', which in most cases we won't, which means we always feel like there is something we have forgotten, something we are not doing that we should or want to .. which leave a residue of missing something

So .. by reading this article now (or whatever it is you are procrastinating about doing) which may only taken two minutes to read .. you will feel comfortable that you have completed the tasks at hand, you can happily hit the delete button (or maybe save for another occasion, or pass it on ... yeah!) ... but .. it's done .. it's finished .. you did it .. i has been 'processed' by the mind .. task completed .. and you are freed from that sense of 'what did I mean/want/hope/plan to do today?'

Something like our meditation practice. Note: A 15 minute meditation practice .. is just 1/100th of your day. I mean really! .. we know there is no greater investment of our time .. so why put it off

JUST DO A LITTLE BIT
Imagine that getting started is the only thing in the world that matters
Just starting
Remove all distractions, turn off the phone and move away from the computer
Just sit there and focus on getting started
Not doing the whole meditation .. just starting
Close your eyes
Relax your body
Give yourself 60 seconds
Pay attention to your breathe
Notice when your mind urges you to switch to something else (Facebook will be there later, that call can wait, and you can eat in a minute
Just for this next breath .. breathe
Don't move, but notice the urge to
Don’t ruminate/fantasise/analyse, but notice the urge to
These urges will pass .. like puffy clouds in the sky above .. allow each one pass on by
Notice this breathe
Then, notice this breathe
As long as you like
Just a tiny step of peacefulness
Once started .. the rest will flow
Each time you have a moment
Just start
Without a goal or a timeframe
Just begin
And soon you will want to continue longer
Soon everything external will drop away and you will just rest
Meditation will find you
And then .. it's done
You found the starting point. this moment

This week seek out those moments when life slows down naturally, when the sunlight draws you to the couch or you are cocooned in your car or awake while the house still sleeps .. and close your eyes. No expectations, no 'I should meditate' .. just slip into the moment.

And as you notice your breath slowing, and your shoulders softening, and your mind stilling .. just rest .. just see what happens, what unfolds.
#1 PROCRASTINATION

One-ness ..

2011-10-06T05:04:00.000-07:00

perhaps we have touched this sense of one-ness in our meditation .. but do we live and walk with one-ness ..

Inspiring Quote ~ October 2011

2011-10-01T22:42:00.000-07:00

“May your mind transcend limitations. May your consciousness expand in every direction. May you discover yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed yourself to be”

Patanjali (Yoga Sutras, around 200BC)

Australian Meditation Conference

2011-09-22T17:16:00.000-07:00

I can't wait .. it is almost time ... the 4th annual Australian Meditation Conference is almost here!

This is a brilliant event .. unique and inspiring .. bringing together a wealth of meditation voices from Australia and overseas.

The Conference will be held at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology's Storey Hall (where it was located last year) on Saturday October 8, 2011. There are also some pre and post-conference workshops on the Friday (7th) and Sunday (9th).Wi th the conference being led by Dr Craig Hassed (as MC) .. you can also hear from:
* Lorin Roche (USA), meditation teacher, researcher and author of Meditation Made Easy, and The Radiance Sutras
* Camille Maurine (USA), co-author of Meditation Secrets for Women and Meditation 24/7
* Lama Marut (USA), Professor Emeritus of Comparative Religion at the University of California
* Petrea King (one of the most popular Australian meditation voices and sure to be a full room .. again)
* Philip Stevens
* Professor Nick Allen, from Monash University

READ all about the Conference at http://www.australianmeditationconference.com.au/

And .. if that is not enough for your weekend .. why not try:

PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP: CONSCIOUS EVOLUTION — PETREA KINGFriday October 7, 10.00am - 4.00pm
Northcote Town Hall, 189 High Street, Northcote

A practical workshop explores how to align ourselves with the evolving consciousness that is flowering on the planet so we can be of service to something that is greater than the sum of the individual parts.

POST-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP: WILD SERENITY — INSTINCTIVE MEDITATION & MOVEMENT PRACTICES WITH DR. LORIN ROCHE & CAMILLE MAURINESunday October 9, 9.30am - 5:00pm
NICA, 41 Green St, Prahran

This workshop is a Meditation Skills Lab, and it is great fun. You get a chance to explore many different pathways for entering meditation – a range of senses, postures, motions, and emotions. This enhances your personal practice and, if you are a teacher, may also enrich and refine your skills in guiding others.

What seeds are you planting?

2011-09-20T20:28:00.000-07:00

Our beachside venue and last nights Spring Sunset

And so .. finally .. spring has arrived!

Nature is blossoming around us, trees are budding outside my window, bright fresh greenery atop long thin branches dried grey from winter .. and I feel naturally drawn to the outside world and the awakening of new dreams and new creating .

Over the last few weeks I have been so very busy tending my baby seeds .. the new CD ‘Find The Stillness’ has been birthed and is now finding its way to new families and new listeners, a fresh bunch of classes have just started .. and I am back at my favourite meditation space down by the beach. So many new opportunities are sprouting up around me that I have just not found the time to blog.

When the world of possibilities opens up and we are floating along ‘in the zone’ .. choices just have to be made. I have been indulging in new friendships, projects, thoughts and dreams and so have been a little preoccupied to blog, but I have lots to share .. soon .. soon ...

Springtime is natures call to fling open the windows of our life, harness the worlds newfound energy and be inspired by our dreams for the future. The earth is warm and nurturing ..

What seeds are you planting right now?

New Meditation Classes : Starting Next Week

2011-08-31T16:32:00.000-07:00

Time to learn how to meditate?

Our Spring classes start next week.

JOIN US for our five week Exploring Meditation program :

Parkdale Yacht ClubTuesday 6th September

9.30am - 11am OR 6.30pm - 8.00pm

The Karma Studio

Wednesday 7th September

7pm - 8.30pm

In the Exploring Meditation Program we explore:

* core meditation principals

* the ‘how’ and ‘why’

* stress and how to better manage

* a variety of different techniques .. including short ‘spot’ meditations and longer practices

* obstacles and antidotes

* ways of measuring our progress

* starting a daily meditation practice.

PLACES STILL AVAILABLE : CLICK HERE

You can find out more about previous classes here You can view some notes on the Exploring Meditation Program here : Class 1 , Class 2, Class 3 , Class 4, Class 5

Sitting

2011-08-24T21:36:00.000-07:00

A beautifully engaging introduction to the art of sitting in meditation.

Today .. into my inbox .. sweet and wise instruction from Karen Maezen Miller (one of my favourite bloggers, writer and Zen Buddhist priest) .. a a timely reminder of where we start our meditation .. by taking our seat.

Karen Maezen Miller (www.karenmaezenmiller.com/) a Zen Buddhist priest and teacher, or sensei, at the Hazy Moon Zen Center in Los Angeles, a wonderful writer of books that I treasure and delve into regularly, such as Hand Wash Cold : Care Instructions for an Ordinary Life, and regular contributor to one of my favourite magazines Shambhala.

Hazy Moon Zen Center Los Angeles : (http://www.hazymoon.com/) prepared this video. Find out more about the Zen Buddhism (a 2,500 year old oral teaching) and Zen Meditation and the Center online.

Take a moment and just sit ..

Almost ..

2011-08-22T17:35:00.000-07:00

Almost Spring .. almost warm sunny days .. almost holiday time .. almost that time of the year!

Christmas gifting requests have already started to come in .. and the blossom is just out on the trees. Is it age .. when the end of each year seems to come up faster and faster?

This week I have scheduled in two end of year corporate meditation classes .. as organisations become aware of how important it is to look after the wellness of their most important asset ‘their people’. After 20+ years in the corporate world I am well versed (and a big proponent) of the responsibility we have to look after our team .. and give them the tools to look after themselves (yep meditation!)

I am also impressed when I hear people are already organising their end of year gifts .. because I am the person who races around the night before needing to feel 'inspired' And this week I also had my first call for a Gift Certificate. I love that ‘the gift of mediation is that gift that keeps on giving’ and we can make the certificate out for any amount or a particular class or workshop .. and they are fully transferrable and valid for a full year. Do your clients/staff really need another bottle of wine or food parcel .. or the life skill of meditation?

In my previous corporate life this was the time of year when I would organising our end of year conference .. the opportunity to share with colleagues the lessons and challenges of the year, prepare our SWAT for the new year .. and party hard! To keep everyone connected through a day of heavy thinking sessions it was important to schedule in some down time and also some team building activities. A Meditation break out session is a great refresher and team building exercise .. release stress, inspire creative thinking, and give your team a chance to refresh with a meditation break out session.

Find The Stillness (CD)

2011-08-09T01:01:00.000-07:00

FIND THE STILLNESS
Guided Meditation CD by Sarah Fletcher

Quiet Mind Meditation began with the belief that meditation is a life skill that everyone should learn. The CD grew from the enthusiasm, support and frequent requests from the many participants who attended classes .. who wanted to ‘take me home’ to support their personal practice.

Well ... now you really can ‘take me home’.

This is our first CD and provides a solid foundation and introduction to the practice of meditation. Two Meditation Exercises are provided for those moments in life when you need to refocus and release stress, and two longer Meditation Practices that provide an introduction to two of the most widely practiced meditation techniques ~ focusing on the body and the breath.

You can purchase Find The Stillness direct from Quiet Mind Meditation for $20

NEW Meditation Classes .. starting tomorrow!

2011-08-01T20:22:00.000-07:00

Time to learn how to meditate?

Our next Exploring Meditation program will be held at The Karma Studio (Sandringham)

starting tomorrow

Wednesday 3rd August

7pm (till 8.30pm)

In the Exploring Meditation Program we explore:

* core meditation principals

* the ‘how’ and ‘why’

* stress and how to better manage

* a variety of different techniques .. including short ‘spot’ meditations and longer practices

* obstacles and antidotes

* ways of measuring our progress

* starting a daily meditation practice.

4 PLACES LEFT : BOOK HERE

You can find out more about previous classes here You can view some notes on the Exploring Meditation Program here : Class 1 , Class 2, Class 3 , Class 4, Class 5

Morning Rituals

2011-08-01T17:43:00.000-07:00

Do you have a morning ritual? How we start our day has an amazingly powerful impact on the overall flavour of our day (and life). By creating a morning ritual we are honouring the very best of ourselves, our intentions and dreams, and setting the tone for our day.

According to Ayurvedic philosophy, choices that you make regarding your daily routine either build up resistance to disease or tear it down. Ayurveda suggests you jump-start your day by focusing on morning rituals that work to align the body with nature's rhythms, balance the doshas, and also foster self-esteem alongside self-discipline.

I have listed some of my own morning rituals below, along with some other inspiring rituals that I would like to incorporate one day. Take some time to think about what might be of most benefit for your own morning ritual, and start with focusing on just a few simple activities first .. after a couple of weeks (they say it takes 30 days of consistent practice to form a habit) you could introduce a few more. It also helps to write out your personal morning ritual, so you have a reminder and something to follow, until you establish the habit.

Waking Up

My morning ritual starts with a slow and gentle waking. I find nothing is more jarring and disturbing than loud buzzing, beeps or music. I have a meditation clock that provides a simple, clear chime that allows me to slowly awaken to the new day. I also sleep without blinds and find that I now wake quite naturally with the rising sun which I believe is a much healthier way to tune your body clock into the day.

Observing your thoughts ..

2011-07-26T17:49:00.000-07:00

Judith Lucy's Spiritual Journey

2011-07-25T16:47:00.000-07:00

Picture from SMH

From a Catholic background to Marxist notions of religion at University .. Judith Lucy is one of Australia's funniest comedians with best-selling books, TV, radio and film credits. This week Judith presents a six-part series on ABC1 .. a 'spiritual journey’ that brings along her irreverent and intelligent interview skills to discussions with a female Aboriginal elders in Alice Springs, a Catholic nun in her early 40s and Buddhist monks in India.

Having found yoga for help with physical health, Judith was led to meditation and a growing interest in the Eastern religious philosophies that underpin them. Judith meditates regularly and found (as many do) that when all was quiet, what tended to loop through her brain was endless self-criticism. With time she has found however that both practices make her ‘happier than I used to be’.

In the program Lucy attends a 10-silent meditation retreat and travels to India to practice her ‘ommmm’ meditation skills .. the six-part series dives into the really big issues : why are we here and what happens when we die?

Wednesday 27^th on ABC1 at 9.30pm

SMH article here :

Group Meditation .. Join us!

2011-07-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

I shall be leading the next guided meditation session on:

Monday 25th July

Elwood, Melbourne

from 7.30pm-8.30pm

Two guided meditations and room for some silence

at Simply Silence

a casual meditation group

an hour

a comfortable seat

taking a breath

easy

no stress

Just .. a taste!

2011-07-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

A TASTE OF MEDITATION

WEDNESDAY 20th JULY (7.00 - 8.30pm)

A 1.5hr introduction to the wonderful practice of Meditation.

Meditation allows us to find the 'pause' button in our busy, noisy, non-stop world. People meditate for many reasons .. to relax, let go of stress, improve health, develop greater focus and awareness, inspire creative thinking, cope better with change and the demands of life .. and discover some inner peace and clarity. We shall look at some of the key principles of all meditation, experience a relaxing guided meditation and review a shorter 'spot' meditation. There will be some notes to take home as well!

This is an excellent introduction to the practice of meditation, our approach is practical, straightforward and non-religious; and our classes are conducted sitting on a chair (although you can bring a mat or cushion if you prefer).

Taste of Meditation Workshop $30 at The Karma Studio, Sandringham

Bookings essential for all classes
Register your place at info@quietmind.com.au or 0417 403 714

Fascinating Meditation Facts

2011-07-16T00:19:00.000-07:00

The scientific community continues to conduct research into meditation .. and now there is a wealth of information available about how meditation affects mind and body. I love this meeting of science and ancient wisdom .. but once you start meditating regularly I suggest you will already have your own body of evidence! Today from the Huffington Post “7 Fascinating Facts About Meditation” .. an interesting snapshot of current studies on Meditation:

Makes your brain plastic : Sustained meditation leads to something called neuroplasticity, which is defined as the brain's ability to change, structurally and functionally, on the basis of environmental input. Research by University of Wisconsin neuroscientist Richard Davidson has shown that experienced meditators exhibit high levels of gamma ray activity and display an ability -- continuing after the meditation session has attended -- to not get stuck on a particular stimulus. That is, they're automatically able to control their thoughts and reactiveness.

Increases Gray Matter: A 2005 study on American men and women who meditated a mere 40 minutes a day showed that they had thicker cortical walls than non-meditators. What this meant is that their brains were aging at a slower rate. Cortical thickness is also associated with decision making, attention and memory.

Better Than Sleeping : In a 2006 study, college students were asked to either sleep, meditate or watch TV. They were then tested on their alertness by being asked to hit a button every time a light flashed on a screen. The meditators did better than the nappers and TV watchers -- by a whole 10 percent.

Better than Blood Pressure Medication: In 2008, Dr. Randy Zusman, a doctor at the Massachusetts General Hospital, asked patients suffering from high blood pressure to try a meditation-based relaxation program for three months. These were patients whose blood pressure had not been controlled with medication. After meditating regularly for three months, 40 of the 60 patients showed significant drops in blood pressure levels and were able to reduce some of their medication. The reason? Relaxation results in the formation of nitric oxide which opens up your blood vessels.

Protects your Telomeres: Telomeres -- the protective caps at the end of our chromosomes -- are the new frontier of anti-aging science. Longer telomeres mean that you're also likely to live longer. Research done by the University of California, Davis' Shamatha Project has shown that meditators have significantly higher telomerase activity that non-meditators. Telomerase is the enzyme that helps build telomeres, and greater telomerase activity can possibly translate into stronger and longer telomeres .

Slows The Progression of HIV : A 2008 study on HIV positive patients found that, after an eight-week meditation course, patients who'd meditated showed no decline in lymphocyte content compared with non-meditators who showed significant reduction in lymphocytes. Lymphocytes or white blood cells are the "brain" of the body's immune system, and are particularly important for HIV positive people. The study also found that lymphocyte levels actually went up with each meditation session. However, due to the small sample size -- only 48 volunteers -- it's harder to draw definitive conclusions.

Beats Morphine : Earlier this year, a study conducted by Wake Forest Baptist University found that meditation could reduce pain intensity by 40 percent and pain unpleasantness by 57 percent. Morphine and other pain-relieving drugs typically show a pain reduction of 25 percent. Meditation works by reducing activity in the somatosensory cortex and increasing activity in other areas of the brain. This study also had a small sample size, making it harder to draw definite conclusions.

Just Because ... its Friday!

2011-07-14T23:46:00.000-07:00

Meditation in the News

2011-07-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

There's nothing to it and science agrees - meditation works
SMH : Melissa Lahoud : July 12, 2011

Article found in Sydney Morning Herald this week detailing a recent study on work stress that was led by Dr Ramesh Manocha at Sydney University.

The clinical trial included 178 full-time workers who practiced meditation (Sahaja Meditation) twice daily at home for 10-20 minutes over eight weeks.

The study found that meditation triggers change in electrical activity of the brain, improving the mind and body in measurable ways. Within the context of meditation and stress, it's the largest study in the world … and we've applied some rigorous conditions," Dr Manocha said.

"What authentic techniques should do is show you how to widen space between thoughts until the space is so large you have no thoughts whatsoever in that moment," he said

The improvements for mood and depression were twice as high for those practising ''mental silence'' compared to the ''relaxation'' and placebo groups.

"We've done other published studies where, when you teach people relaxation, they feel better, but there's no change in disease, but when you teach mental silence approach, they felt twice as better but also saw significant changes in indicators with disease," Dr Manocha said

* A Lifeline poll reveals that stress levels are rising, with 93 per cent of Australians under strain at a rate that could create serious illness.

* Workplace stress costs the economy $15 billion a year.

Read article here:

Meditation Exercises

2011-07-07T23:29:00.000-07:00

INSTANT RELIEF ~ MEDITATION EXERCISES
13 July at The Karma Studio
7.30 - 8.30pm ($25)

Simple, brief and practical Meditation Exercises that can be practiced almost anywhere and anytime, when you need to de-stress, re-balance or push the 'pause' button on life. These easy to learn exercises can be done throughout the day and empower us to let go of that sticky stress that we seem to pick up and carry around with us.

* They offer a moment of escape from the speed and busyness of life; a chance to connect again with the breath and that place of stillness and peacefulness that we know is within us .. even in moments of chaos and challenge.

* They don't require any experience, equipment, teacher, clothing or space.

* They are amazingly simple and powerful tools to have in your toolbox for moments when you need to relax quickly, pause and refresh.

Meditation Exercise are short practices based on key elements of longer and more traditional meditative techniques. They allow us to practice the skill of meditation away from our regular meditation practice .. like running through chords on the piano to prepare for the concerto, or lifting weights in readyness for the tennis championship.

Great on their own .. even better when combined with a regular meditation practice. Meditation exercises are also a wonderful entry point for a longer meditation as they allowing us to quickly settle the body and mind.

In this workshop we shall review a number of meditation exercises (movements, breath, mindfulness), explore how we can incorporate them into daily life, and do the practice .. from a few minutes to several minutes.

Once familiar with these exercises you will have some tools on hand to release excess stress .. every hour on the hour, each time you break for a cup of tea, while travelling to and from work or prior to a meeting .. the benefits can be both immediate and lasting.

Like seed pods that come from the most ancient trees of the forest, compact and contained as a single seed .. yet holding within all the knowledge and potential to become the tree.

Registration essential.

Day 1 : A Kalachakra Pilgrim in Washington

2011-07-06T19:28:00.000-07:00

Monks at the 2003 Kalachakra in India

This week in Washington DC, His Holiness the Dalai Lama will be presenting the Kalachakra, an 11-day event that brings together thousands of monks, nuns and lay practitioners to meditate and pray for world peace.

The tradition revolves around the concept of time; the Sanskrit term meaning time (kāla) and cycles (chakra): .. from the cycles of the planets, to the cycles of human breathing, it teaches the practice of working with the most subtle energies within one's body on the path to enlightenment.

Gabriel Riera from The washington Post is covering the Kalachakra in his blog here

“I will be blogging about what I see and hear. My perspective is that of an interested and reasonably informed participant, though not an expert on the topic of Buddhism. I have a meditation practice that I work at, struggle with, abandon, and cling to in seemingly endless cycles throughout my life.”

“On the one hand, the Kalachakra can be seen as a peace rally, a significant gathering in our nation’s capital where decisions are made that affect the entire world. Hundreds of deeply dedicated nuns, monks and lay people will spend days together under the guidance of a powerful spiritual leader; their minds and hearts oriented like needles on a cosmic compass, in the direction of peace. Such concentrated attention and goodwill can only be of benefit to all beings.”

Focus On : Clare from my spa guide

2011-07-03T00:16:00.000-07:00

Recently I met the amazing Clare Greig .. one of the owners/ creators of my spa guide, the ultimate independent directory of Australian spas. This is a brilliant website (and what a business to work in!) my spa guide provides spa seekers with a spa search tool, a place to write reviews, find spa deals, treatment guides and spa news.

Clare and I spoke about meditation, blogging and setting up a new business .. and I am thrilled that she was more than happy to be interviewed for this Focus On post. I am also delighted to let you know that Clare invited me to write some guest posts for my spa guide .. which you can check out now on their website at http://www.myspaguide.com.au/ .. now over to Clare ...

Name: Clare Greig
Special Interest: Heath and Wellbeing
Email: clare@myspaguide.com.au
Website : www.myspaguide.com.au

Tell us about your thoughts on wellness
It is so easy to get caught up in our busy lives and miss the moments. Creating a lifestyle where we are truly ourselves and inspired by our surroundings and lifes natural gifts of nature, connecting with others, love and spirituality. I find this through music, taking time out, meditation, sleep, visiting day spas, exersise and laughter. With a good mix of the above ingredients we can be healthy, well and loving to others.

How long have you been practicing, or working in this area?
I have been working in magazine and website publishing for 10 years and decided I wanted to work for myself so that I could get a good balance of being a Mother and make my own rules. So my spa guide was the perfect opportunity to allow me to use my experience and create every Spa Seekers dream, a one-stop-shop, with a comprehensive guide to Australian spas, great articles and an easy-to-use spa search tool.

How did you ‘find’ meditation, and how long have you been practicing meditation?
Meditation did not come easy to me. When I first tried it the thought of sitting still for twenty minutes made me panic. I started with a 2 hour class across 10 weeks. Now after a few years of practice it is easy and effortless. I am probably the kind of person who needs it the most. I have a busy mind and a hectic lifestyle, I struggle to relax and I always want to achieve more. This means my body and mind never get to rest and recharge, aside from when I am sleeping. So meditation has taught me to slow down, rest and become still.

Do you have a regular practice – daily, weekly, other? Ideally I practice daily but I get in and out of the habit. I meditated today!

What inspires you to keep meditating .. returning to your practice? After meditation I have more clarity, I laugh more, I’m more patient and forgiving.

Why meditate? A more light hearted and easy going me as a result. Since becoming a mother meditation has become even more important. It is harder to find the time but the need to reset my energy and be in the moment with my boy is vital!

Do you have a particular technique(s) that you have found most suitable for you?
Most of the time I need guided meditation at first but once I have softened I can enjoy silent meditation. I find my mind wanders and I have different techniques to bring it back eg. the breath and focussing on specific words like “calm” or “love”. I also like following light to areas I am feeling stressed and tense.

AM or PM? Luncthime when my little boy is sleeping

Chair, cushion, stool? I like a cushion on the floor.

Have you a dedicated space for your practice? Not really. In an ideal world I would meditate under a tree, could there be a better spot?

Have you attended a meditation retreat? No. Would like to try a health retreat that offers massage, meditation and hiking. Heaven!

Any favourite books/CDs/Resources that you might share with others? Yolanda Pettinato’s CD’s are great.

Any thoughts you might share with those who are new to meditation? Don’t have any expectations. There is always time to meditate, no matter how busy we are.

7 Random things about you?
I’m just shy of 6ft tall
Melbourne is my wonderful adopted City, England is my beautiful home
I prefer to play guitar than watch TV
I used to run a choir, singing with others is amazingly good for your welbeing
I grew up in the countryside and I want to return before I’m forty
Life doesn’t get much better than losing track of time at the beach
I had a baby Elephant at my wedding

Cleaning As Meditation

2011-07-01T05:11:00.000-07:00

I was recently sharing the wonders of meditation with a large corporate group .. seated in a magnificent boardroom perched high above the city, with views to the water and hills. The group were all high achieving corporate career individuals who had stepped away from their busy desks for this opportunity to learn how to relax and find out how meditation might be incorporated into their busy lives.

I wanted to share with them the powerful benefits of meditation .. while acknowledging that meditation is not something that I could 'give' them, not something they could purchase or make happen through willpower or brain power.

In fact, that deep well of stillness and peacefulness is already there within us .. even right now, in the heat of the moment, in a day filled with appointments and urgent client demands, with the constantly ringing phones and unfinished tasks .. the peacefulness is within us, however often hidden under the layers of mind chatter and habitual thought. Meditation is a practice that allows us to clear away the clutter and rest in that deep calmness and ease.

Celebrities Who Meditate!

2011-06-28T05:03:00.000-07:00

This is a first! A nod to mainstream-media-celebrity-sell .. from The Telegraph (UK) newspaper online today who identified ‘celebrities’ who meditate .. some of which are listed here, for the full article go here.

Gwyneth Paltrow : In January, the actress said: “My New Year's resolution is to learn how to meditate. It’s always sounded like something I should do, but I don’t know how to. My friends who do it say it’s really freakin' brilliant. They say you can’t know the peace/awareness/contentment until you do it."
Read more ..

Simply Silence .. Monday night

2011-06-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I joined in with the MedMob Melbourne 'sit' .. the day was quite beautiful, with blue sky above and a breeze that reminded me a little of early Spring. The gathering was at Southbank and the turnout was smaller than I expected, but I had my meditation cushion with me, and a blanket to keep nice and warm, and I sat. Just sat. Reminded me (again) that the silence is always within and practicing outside, amongst the noisy, bustling chaos of life, is very rewarding .. so I just sat and sat .. I heard kids laughing and felt the sun on my face .. and I simply observed my breath .. again and again. I actually had a very peaceful meditation and it was a really pleasant way to spend an hour on a Sunday by the Yarra.

If you would like to experience a group meditation you might like to join us Monday night at Simply Silence

Monday 27th June : Elwood, Melbourne
7.30pm-8.30pm
a casual meditation group
$10 donation

2011-06-23T05:03:00.000-07:00

MedMob is a global community coming together in meditation, open to people from all walks of life, with the intention of exposing the world to meditation and reaping the benefits of looking within.

I was unable to attend the first few MedMob Melbourne gatherings. Today I received this wonderful and inspiring video that just makes me want to sign up right now .. I shall definitely be aiming to attend this one on Sunday. Just watching human-beings sitting quietly, just 'being' together, different practices and difference experiences .. all sharing a moment of meditation ~ inspiring! A reading by Thich Nhat Hanh is part of this beautiful video .. these words are his ..

My mind calm
my body relaxed
a smile is born on my lips
following the sound of the bell
my breath brings me back
to the safe island of mindfulness ...

Medmob Melbourne: 26/06/2011
Location: RIVER PROMENADE, Southbank
Time: ‎2:00PM Sunday, June 26th..

A Meditation Coach

2011-06-22T19:46:00.000-07:00

(Photo : Thought by Sarah Abbott)

I have found there is a very special 'magic' that happens when I share meditation with someone .. one-on-one. Sometime people find its just impossible to get to a group class, or perhaps its just not their 'thing' to learning with others, or perhaps they have been ill or work strange hours. Sometimes we just need some fresh energy and new inspiration, or have out-grown our meditation books or previous instruction.

Private meditation coaching allows us to meet on your ground, within your daily life, and look at techniques and exercises that meet your unique needs and learning style .. classes can be tailored to meet specific needs, timeframe or individual challenges.

Kind of like having a Meditation Coach .. it’s wonderfully organic, it grows with you when you are ready to leap to the next stage, and supports you when you need support.

I have made many new friend through private instruction .. and the 'magic' happens for me when I find a synergy of peacefulness and silence blossoming in our practice together .. and hearing how the benefits of meditation have infiltrated anothers life, like I know it has mine.

I have some times available in JULY for Meditation Coaching .. if you would like to find out more contact me here

Going Away To Go Within

2011-06-10T22:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been on a retreat?

Over the past couple of days there have been definite 'signs'.. whispers and flyers and emails .. crossing my path in every direction .. retreat.. retreat .. retreat ...
A retreat gives us the sublime opportunity to step away from the hustle and bustle of busy modern life, leave behind for a moment all of our responsibilities, must-do's and should-do's .. and give us a very big moment to pause and catch our breath!

More than a holiday, a retreat, provides the space and intention to rest, heal, reflect and renew our spirit. Uninterrupted time to immerse ourselves in a new practice,focus on wellbeing and health, allow ourselves to be nurtured and guided by others, and rest in a different spaciousness of time .. which allows for change and reflection.

If you are interested in reading a little about retreats, keen to explore some current retreat options, or would like to share your retreat experience .. visit our Retreat Beat blog.

On my vision board is now a new entry .. the word 'retreat'.

The wind .. of the mind

2011-06-09T20:59:00.000-07:00

We started our June Winter Meditation sessions this week .. a chance to reconnect with your meditation practice supported by a group of other meditators. I led the first guided meditation which assisted in transitioning from the busy day to a quieter space, and then we did a twenty minute silent meditation.

It was a blustery, noisey and cold Wednesday night and in the deep stillness of our silent practice there was a sense at one point of almost 'being' the wild wind outside.

And the windy night provided me with a great lesson that I wanted to share..

When we come to our meditation practice we are often seeking that 'blissful, easy meditation' that perhaps we experienced last week or last class. And sometimes when we finally sit for our meditation, we find that our body and mind do settle gently and easily .. like a soft summer breeze! Othertimes our body and mind refuse to settle and throw us into a veritable gale of agitation and chaos.

With practice we realise that we must accept that we cannot 'make' the wind soften .. and we cannot 'make' meditation happen. We learn to let go of the need to control and make happen, instead we just open to the experience we are having in this moment.

We find that we can bear witness to the wild wind (the wild mind, the thoughts, stories, feelings or distractions) without being blown away or dismantled by it .. we just continue to breath with open non-judgemental awareness to what is.

Community

2011-06-07T03:19:00.000-07:00

And so .. after a rainy, grey, cold day .. it was nice to arrive home to a surprise!

I collected my local paper on the way inside .. and was casually leafing through the pages .. when I am amazed and happy to find an entry about the Winter Solstice Meditation classes that start tomorrow night (Wed 8th June).

For the month of June .. each Wednesday night .. an hour of stillness .. some time to regroup, refresh and reconnect.

Winter is the natural time for turning inward.

I am so looking forward to .. some time.

Thank you .. Leader Newspaper (Australia)

Time for practice ..

2011-06-06T17:31:00.000-07:00

It's cool outside .. so come into the warmth
It's busy outside .. so come sit quietly within

8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th June

STARTING THIS WEEK : 7.30pm-8.30pm ( $20 per class)
As the days become darker and longer and the world around us starts to slow .. we too naturally find ourselves mimicking the slower pace. Symbolically and energetically this is the time of the year when we should embrace and welcome the slower rhythm of life .. Winter is the season for embracing stillness, and honouring introspection and reflection. An opportunity to reconnect and nourish your practice with a guided meditation (approx. 25min) and then a silent meditation (for your own personal practice).

JOIN US HERE

News Bites : Meditation

2011-05-31T17:14:00.000-07:00

There is so much stuff 'out there' about meditation .. over the last few years the volume of data and articles that hit the standard news feeds has been amazing. I thought it would be interesting to note some of the more interesting bits here, every couple of weeks:

Fastcompany Magazine : Over 30 years ago the Walt Disney Co. called in a meditation teacher to assist the creative design and development team access new creative directions – the results was Tokyo, Paris and Hong Kong developments and 3-D virtual reality displays and animatronics. Today, Ron Alexander helps creative workers – Hollywood producers, rock musicians, screenwriters – enhance their creativity suggesting that at least 12 minutes of meditation every day builds 'mind strength'. "Your awareness and consciousness become really toned. This is an excellent strategy for becoming successful in your profession, as well as the bigger game of transforming yourself and the people who work with and for you."

* * *
From one of my new favourite daily e-newsletters : The Well Daily: Introduced to the Interdependence Project the Interdependence Project (IDP), where meditation is taught as useful mental training, grounded in both science and ancient lineage. The IDP’s approach to mindfulness is secular, straightforward and wonderfully accessible. IDP founder Ethan Nichtern explains the principle behind the project: "If you want to change the world, you have to know, and I mean really know, how your own mind works." Listen to the free podcasts of lectures and interviews each week, they also provide Study at Home courses on meditation.

* * *

Brain Research Bulletin, April 2011: Meditation helps brain block out distractions

Meditation can help relieve pain and improve memory by regulating a brain wave known as the alpha rhythm, which 'turns down the volume' on distractions The alpha rhythm plays a role in the cells that process senses like touch, sight and sound in the brain .. it helps the brain ignore distractions, helping a person to focus while many things are going on. In view of that we know about how alpha waves arising from electrical currents in brain cells, the findings suggest that mindfulness meditation practitioners can use the mind to enhance regulation of currents in targeted brain cells. The implications may help patients with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and other conditions.

2011-05-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

A bumped into this fun youtube animation by Martin Boroson, author of the One-Moment Meditation program .. and it reminded me of the course I did via Oprah back in April 2010 .. so, I hunted down the course notes (which are still online) and if this little video sparks your interest .. go to Oprah - Transform Stress in 30 Days with One Moment Meditation. All it takes is a moment ..( although I have to say .. moment meditations are excellent for releasing some of the day to day stress that we carry around with us, however most of the wonderful health and wellbeing benefits of meditation are more likely to enter our lives when we establish a longer (and regular) meditation practice .. but as we are all unique .. we all have our own unique journey .. enjoy!)

Winter Solstice Meditation

2011-05-25T21:14:00.000-07:00

"When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy" (Rumi)

8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th June

WINTER SOLSTICE MEDITATION

(Ideal for those with a meditation practice as there is limited instruction)

An opportunity to reconnect and nourish your meditation practice. Join a small group (limited to ten participants) for a gentle hour of meditation at

The Karma Studio (Sandringham) : 7.30-8.30pm.

As the days become darker and longer and the world around us starts to slow .. we too naturally find ourselves mimicking the slower pace. Symbolically and energetically this is the time of the year when we should embrace and welcome the slower rhythm of life .. Winter is the season for embracing stillness, and honouring introspection and reflection.
Read more ..

Brrrrr its cold outside

2011-05-23T21:13:00.000-07:00

I woke this morning .. it was cold! I imagined I could see my morning breath on the air .. it seemed that cold outside of the covers. I could feel my resolve to get up and meditate starting to evaporate into the dream world of sleep and the deep warmth of bed.

When Sarah McLean (Sedona Meditation Training Company) was in Melbourne recently she commented to me (and I'm sure this is not a secret) ... that she sat up in bed each morning for her meditation practice, supporting her back against the back rest! that sounded the perfect antidote to my cold morning reluctance ..

Telephone Spot Meditation

2011-05-23T00:25:00.000-07:00

"The temple bell stops but I still hear the sound coming out of the flowers"(Matsuo Basho)

Meditation and relaxation are both a 'process' .. and there are many techniques we can learn to assist us in tapping into this very natural and instinctive activation of the relaxation response. In meditation we relax the body, calm the mind and engage the senses. It is when we shift from the 'thinking' brain to the 'sensing' brain that we open the door to relaxation, and in this space we practice our meditation.

When we sit quietly and focus on one of our senses, as a child completely mesmerized by a new smell or sound, then our random and busy thinking mind drops away into the background. Sensing is a very natural mode of relaxing .. we can relax listening to rain on the tin roof, or immersed in a warm bath imbued with our favorite fragrance .. in meditation we make this shift to the senses a conscious and deliberate act. When we are fully engaged with our senses then our mind has less interest or energy to think.

QM Meditation Bracelet

2011-05-15T16:59:00.000-07:00

OUR NEW MEDITATION BRACELETS : ONLY $20

While our intention to incorporate meditation into our daily life may be clear and firm .. the biggest challenge is often remembering to take the time to sit and meditate! We have found that the most powerful way to create a meditation habit is to find a trigger to remind you of your intention to practice.

ORDER : We will package your bracelet in a beautiful box along with a small scroll of information on the practice of meditation .. and will deliver FREE in Australia : order at quietmind@dodo.com.au

Our new QM Meditation Bracelets have been designed to provide a beautiful visual trigger to reminder you to stop, take a breath and turn your focus inward. While you move about your day, work at your desk, drive your car or put out the washing .. the QM Meditation Bracelet will be your visual reminder .. the gentle nudge .. the quiet whisper .. to come back to the breath and take a moment for your meditation practice. In this way we keep our intention to meditate in our thoughts throughout the day.

Medical Sector Offering Meditation

2011-05-11T15:52:00.000-07:00

From ABC News (USA) : Hospitals, Medical Centers Offering Meditation and More"Health care providers are increasingly suggesting that their patients look to meditation and other integrative techniques to improve their health, according to a report released Monday by Harvard Medical School and published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Many medical centers and institutions, in fact, are providing such services themselves." (sorry for the advertising which begins the video .. the things they will do!)

Susan Piver : The Open Heart Project

2011-05-09T16:39:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to introduce you to Susan Piver .. I have been reading Susan Piver's blogs and website for many years .. she is an inspiring writer and teacher of writing and meditation .. and Buddhist practitioner. She has written 5 books (with a 6th on the way), writes for Huffington Post and owns a book packaging business Padma Media. More recently Susan has started offering weekly meditation instruction via her blog called 'the open heart project'. I emailed Susan recently because of this beautiful piece she wrote on meeting and listening to our inner voice .. and so with Susan's permission I have reprinted her article here .. thank you Susan ..

How to be more disciplined? The practice of sitting meditation begins to shed some light on the Buddhist view of discipline. In meditation (instruction here), you cultivate focus and awareness by placing your attention on your breath rather than your thoughts. PS It has nothing to do with emptying the mind of thought!! Almost impossible!! Stop trying!! Big hoax!!

Meditation Classes Starting Tonight ...

2011-05-03T19:22:00.000-07:00

Exploring Meditation Program

STARTING TONIGHT : PLACES STILL AVAILABLE!

Wednesday evenings (x5 weeks) :

Sandringham : 7-8.30pm
An excellent beginners program introducing the 'art and science of meditation, run over five weeks this is a wonderful opportunity to explore, discuss and de-mystify this ancient life skill : meditation. Explore a range of different meditation techniques in a supportive, engaging and fun class. Our teaching style is relaxed and practical .. a straightforward approach that aims to make meditation accessible and enjoyable.
Contact Sarah to register your place on quietmind@dodo.com.au or 0417 403 714

Meditation Cultivates Attentional Skills

2011-04-28T04:06:00.000-07:00

'Oneness' Feeling Experienced by Monks, Explained
By: Marina Watson Peláez, TIME MAGAZINE
We now have further insights into how monks' brains are reorganized during meditation.

Zoran Josipovic, a research scientist and adjunct university professor at New York University, has been placing Buddhists in a FMRI (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machine, which tracks their blood flow as they meditate. Josipovic, who moonlights as a monk himself, wanted to know more about the state of "oneness" or "nonduality" that monks achieve by meditating. "One thing that meditation does for those who practise it a lot is that it cultivates attentional skills," Dr Josipovic told the BBC. He added that it helped to live a happier and tranquil life.
Read more ..

New Classes : 4th May

2011-04-26T17:49:00.000-07:00

Exploring Meditation Program

Wednesday evenings : Sandringham

Starts 4th May : 7-8.30pm

An excellent beginners program introducing the 'art and science of meditation'.

Run over five weeks this is a wonderful opportunity to explore, discuss and de-mystify this ancient life skill : meditation.

Explore a range of different meditation techniques in a supportive, engaging and fun class. Our teaching style is relaxed and practical .. a straightforward approach that aims to make meditation accessible and enjoyable.

We shall explore :
* core concepts that apply to all meditation
* the 'how' and 'why'
* stress and how to better manage
* a variety of different techniques .. some short 'spot' meditations and longer practices
* challenges and antidotes
* measuring progress
* starting a daily meditation practice.

Bookings essential for all classes.

Contact Sarah to register your place on quietmind@dodo.com.au 0417 403 714

Easter Gift

2011-04-22T20:27:00.000-07:00

A wonderful quote to meditate on this Easter .. thank you to the blog Love More Fear Less

Pausing

2011-04-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

The amazing art of pausing.

Thinking before I speak.

Breathing before I react.

Resting before I exhaust myself.

Meditation to Curb Pain .. new study

2011-04-12T23:43:00.000-07:00

Meditation produces powerful pain-relieving effects in the brain, according to new research published in the April 6 edition of the Journal of Neuroscience. A recent study, conducted at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in North Carolina, took a small group of healthy medical students completely new to meditation and gave them four, 20-minute training sessions on “mindfulness meditation” a technique adapted from a Tibetan Buddhist form of meditation called samatha (acknowledging and letting go of distraction). “You are trying to sustain attention in the present moment – everything is momentary so you dont need to react ... what that does healthwise is it reduces the stress response”, said [lead study author Dr Fadel Zeidan] After subjecting the group to a distracting bit of pain – a small, thermal heating devise applied to the right calf – the group were given special brain scans (called arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance imaging – ASL MRI) to monitor brain activity. When subject to pain under normal conditions the region of the primary somatosensory cortex lit up. So how effective was the meditation on easing pain? “We found a big effect – about a 40 per cent reduction in pain intensity and a 57 per cent reduction in pain unpleasantness,” said Dr. Fadel Zeidan. “Meditation produced a greater reduction in pain than even morphine or other pain-relieving drugs, which typically reduce pain ratings by about 25 per cent.” Zeidan and colleagues believe that meditation has great potential for clinical use because so little training was required to produce such dramatic pain-relieving effects. “This study shows that meditation produces real effects in the brain and can provide an effective way for people to substantially reduce their pain without medications,” Zeidan said.

East West College new classes

2011-04-10T09:45:00.000-07:00

What an exciting couple of months it has been .. with a day of meditation with the Evolve Festival, a brilliant evening with visiting meditation instructor Sarah McLean, and I have been working hard on my first meditation CD (almost finished) .. and lots more projects in the 'pipeline' ..

One very exciting piece of news I can share .. is a new venue for meditation classes, and new friends for the 'tribe' ..

East West College is found in Caulfield (Melbourne) .. they are Australia’s Oldest Shiatsu and Massage School (established in 1978) .. and provide a range of professional training programs in Therapeutic Massage, Shiatsu, Oriental and Complimentary therapies .. as well as operating clinics at the college where the general public (you and me) can enjoy treatments in shaitsu, therapeutic & remedial massage and reflexology.

Sharing our passion for meditation with some new classes starting next month ..

A Taste of Meditation

Monday 9 May (7-8.30pm) or Wednesday 18 May (10-11.30am) An introduction to meditation .. an ancient wellbeing practice and what we consider a 'life skill'. Understand stress and how it impacts your body and mind, the benefits of meditation, learn a shorter 'spot' meditation and indulge in a longer guided meditation .. with some time to answer your questions.

Meditate Now! 6 week course : Monday evenings 23 May-4 July (7-8.30pm) or

Wednesday daytime 1 June-6 July (10-11.30am) A six week introduction to the 'art and science' of meditation. We shall introduce a range of meditation techniques so that you can find the practice most suitable for you. Explore the core principles of meditation (the how and why), obstacles and antidotes, how to measure your progress and establishing a daily meditation practice. Instruction booklet provided.

OPEN DAY

Sunday 19 June : EastWest College will be holding an Open Day .. come visit .. talk to the teachers and see Massage, Shiatsu and Reflexology demonstrations. Open from 1pm-5pm.

If you would like further information you can visit the East West College or email me at quietmind@dodo.com.au

21 Day Meditation Challenge : Chopra Centre

2011-04-09T19:22:00.000-07:00

Last August (2010) I really enjoyed participating in the Chopra Centre 21Day Meditation Challenge .. just last week I headed down to the beach (enjoying the final moments of our indian summer) and took some time to stop and listened to one of the guided meditations on my iPod. davidji is the senior meditation instructor at the Chopra Centre and he has a truly beautiful presence .. it was like visiting a friend again ..

If you are seeking some ongoing meditation instruction .. within the privacy of your home and internet connection .. then the Spring 21Day Meditation Challenge is about to begin again .. TOMORROW Monday 11th April 2011. If you have done this challenge before .. then rest assured there are new meditations and new presenters this time around. And if you miss the start date .. dont stress, you can start at any time throughout the 21 days.

"Join us over the coming days for a powerful journey that will change your life. Guided by master meditation teacher and dean of Chopra Center University – davidji and other master teachers – you will learn practical techniques for becoming more calm, centered, and happy – even in the midst of life's inevitable pressures and stress."

I am signed up .. you can join us here Spring 21Day Meditation Challenge with the Chopra Centre

Meditation Improves Meetings

2011-04-08T03:38:00.000-07:00

Ten minutes of meditation before a meeting could significantly improve its outcome, according to research by the Kyoto Convention Bureau.

A group of 20 did five separate exercises – including memory, language, comprehension and listening tests – on two separate occasions, 12 days apart. Before the first session there was no preparation, but before the second participants each did a 10-minute meditation exercise. The study found that after the second session delegates showed an average improvement of 12.5% in completing the tasks.

The largest individual improvement across all the tasks was 21%, while the smallest individual improvement was 2%. Reverend Matsuyama, a Zen Buddhist priest, who conducted the meditation session, said: “It is a simple principle; if your tea cup is already filled, there is no point in pouring more tea in it".

“People who come to attend seminars and meetings are often under pressure and tired either because of long journeys or work based stress. If they are to take on-board new information they must first make room for it.” Full article here .. from ABTN (Air & Business Travel News)

Sarah McLean, Sedona Meditation Training Company

2011-04-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

A wonderful and inspiring evening with Sarah McLean at The Langham Hotel on Tuesday night .. so great to catch up with the extended meditation 'tribe' for this unique event, and to meet finally meet Sarah (some three years after we found each other online!).

Sarah is the Founder of the Sedona Meditation Training Company and a couple of months ago she let me know she was coming to Australia. This was her first trip here and when she expressed an interest in sharing her passion for meditation and holding a group meditation .. well that was an opportunity just too perfect. Thank you Melbourne meditators for join us in what was a brilliant turn out and truly inspiring gathering!

Sarah has a beautiful genuine openness and her passion for meditation sparkles in her eyes and words. She shared with us her experience living in a Zen buddhist community, her interest in Ayurveda and her time with Deepak Chopra .. and her 20-year daily meditation practice. Then as we settled into a quieter spaciousness, Sarah led us gently through a couple of meditations .. exploring our inner wisdom with a silence practice to unlock that quiet intuitive voice within by asking ourselves 'Who am I? What is my heart's desire? What is my purpose in life?' .. and moving into her foundation Everyday Meditation technique that includes breath awareness and silent mantra. The stillness and peacefulness that enveloped the room was .. heavenly!

You can listen or download some of Sarah's soothing guided meditations here and I recommend signing up for her beautifully written newsletter Inward Bound. Sarah is planning another trip to our shores, with a book in the pipeline and possibly some more group meditations .. stay tuned!

Yoga Nidra in the Gardens

2011-03-27T03:05:00.001-07:00

What a simply gorgeous day of meditation we had today!

The Evolve Yoga and Wellness Festival provided a full day of delicious asana, pranayama and meditation set amongst the gardens, the sunshine, and magestic beauty of Abbotsford Convent.

I have it on pretty good sources (but it's not official) that there were 1000 tickets sold for the event .. which is brilliant .. and surely reflects the passion of Melbournians (and those who travelled further of course) towards the practices of yoga and meditation, and the chance to spend time with the 'tribe'.

I had planned to spend the entire day in the Peace Room ... attending a selection of half hour meditation workshops with a short break in between to stretch the legs and get some sunshine. There was definitely more interest than there was room however so I missed a couple of workshops .. but the one's I did attend were great (more tomorrow on those) and the bonus was the opportunity to catch up with a few friends, and enjoy some time with a girlfriend in the Bakery listening to some amazing jazz musicians and a lively crowd obviously enjoying a family day and some autumn sun.

One class I was really keen to attend was the Yoga Nidra (guided meditation) session after lunch .. but the crowds were so long (and the room way too small for the interest shown) so that I ended up taking some time to explore some of the courtyards around the convent (this is a photo of one we saw, setting up for a wedding tonight). My girlfriend and I wondered aloud why the organisers hadn't arranged for the Nidra class to be conducted outside .. since we were blessed with such wonderful weather, just the hint of a breeze, and a broad expanse of lush green grass area all to ourselves.

Then before we knew it someone had made an impromptu arrangement .. and Stephan Kahlert from Byron Yoga Centre was called away from his cappaccino to share the delights of Yoga Nidra with the large group who had missed getting into the inside event. How lucky were we!!! We had the sublime experience of meditation outside with nature and air and earth all around us .. the sun warm and relaxing, the grass soft and cool. A wonderful journey inward (with a side trip to a temple high in the snow covered mountains) was the most perfect way to end the day.

You just never know when the magical moments are going to meet you on the path .. and today's impromptu meditation on the grass in the sunshine was one of those very special 'in the moment' events. Thank you Stephan it was lovely to meet you and we all appreciated your wonderful meditation session.

Congratulations Byron Yoga Centre for a wonderful event. I hear it is scheduled again for next year!

Tomorrow .. a day of meditation

2011-03-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

TOMORROW MARCH 27th

Abbotsford Convent Melbourne

Evolve Yoga & Wellness Festival

Peace Room offers a full day of Meditation and Pranayama

will I see you there?

Click here to view the full Evolve Program

Everyday Meditation with Sarah McLean (Melbourne)

2011-03-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

Tuesday April 5

6:30 - 8.30pm

Everyday Meditation Class

at the Langham Hotel, Melbourne

Instruction for beginners with Sarah McLean

Only $25

Sarah McLean is the Founder of the Sedona Meditation Training Company and she will be in Melbourne next month for a very special Everyday Meditation Workshop at the Langham Hotel.

I have been an avid reader of Sarah’s newletter Inward Bound for a number of years, and some time ago I made contact with Sarah seeking permission to reprint one of her articles World Peace via Inner Peace ... this article really resonated with me and I was delighted to make a new friend across the other side of the world!

Along with a 20-year daily meditation practice, Sarah has also served as the founding education director of Deepak Chopra’s Center for Wellbeing, as director of Byron Katie’s international School for The Work, and assistant to Seat of the Soul author, Gary Zukav. Sarah has been teaching meditation and mind/body health programs since the early 90’s and her passion is demystifying meditation and making it accessible to everyone.

This is wonderful opportunity to meet Sarah and learn more about Primordial Sound Meditation a technique that includes breath awareness and silent mantra. You'll discover how easy it is to use this technique, one so effective and universal that you can use if for the rest of your life. There are no prerequisits for this class.

I will definitely be there ... JOIN US!

Read more about Everyday Meditation here

Book Online through Pay Pal or email me to register

Metta and Dana for Japan

2011-03-12T01:56:00.000-08:00

Japan you are in our thoughts.

Quiet Mind Meditation has been wondering how to help .. when mother nature tests us and we feel helpless in the wake of her power.

Dana is a Pali word that can be translated as generosity or giving. In Buddhism, it is also the practice of cultivating generosity. For all future class we shall donate 5% of our class fee to a country, community group or friend in need. For our April/May 2011 classes this donation will find its way somehow to the people of Japan.

And in our meditation practice we offer metta ..

May you be safe
May you be healthy and at ease
May you be peaceful … and with those you love

The Muse Awakens!

2011-03-10T19:17:00.000-08:00

Welcome the year of the Metal Rabbit! And one of the key phrases representing this years is ... 'the muse awakens!'

So last week when I was offered the wonderful opportunity to attend a Vision Board Workshop at The Colour Lab Store and Cafe in Prahran ~ I knew the muse was calling!

Vision Boards are a creative exercise in discovering what your dreams are for life ahead .. you could make up a monthly vision board, or a yearly or even a special project or focussed board.

In our Workshop with Melody we first explored what our life dreams might be (that is a magnificent treat in itself .. just having some time to wander, dream and expand!) ~ and Melody then led us through a guided visualisation meditation where we were free to explore our 'dream life' and center and balance ourselves. Creativity and insight are two qualities that we find in more abundance when we have a regular meditation practice. Cultivating a clear and more spacious mind allows our intuition to shine, and suddenly all sorts of random information fit together to produce a new reality, the answer to a question .. or the best possible business idea ever!

We then dived into mountains of fabulous magazines to find images and/or words that captivated, inspired, aligned and resonated with us for whatever reason. I cut with abandon .. masses of pictures that simply captured my heart (or my head), stunned me with colour, or held words that caught me in the moment. Then, as the afternoon progressed we began to place our images on our large board in line with the Feng Shui 'Bagua' (or system of placement).

My Vision Board now sits near my work desk and each morning I spend some time just gazing .. reflecting .. seeing which images capture me and why .. and reconnecting with my own journey for the day.

If you are interested in doing a Vision Board Workshop then I would recommend you check out The Colour Lab Store and Cafe at 385 High Street Prahran or check out their blog at www.thecolourlabstoreandcafe.blogspot.com

Bring on the muse!

Focus On : Jacqui from EmPowerMe Interventions

2011-03-04T16:54:00.000-08:00

It is truly wonderful to meet a member of 'the tribe' .. someone looking in the same direction, walking a similar path, sharing wisdoms and experiences, helping others to be the best they can be. A girlfriend suggested that I meet up with Jacqui and check out her EmPowerMe Interventions clinic which has a number of treatment rooms and lovely upstairs workshop space in Black Rock. Jacqui is committed and passionate in helping others find the best way to support and honour their mind body spirit. When I found out that Jacqui is also a meditator, I knew I had to ask her to share a little of her meditation journey with us ... thank you Jacqui and please check out EmPowerMe Interventions.

Meet : Jacqui Christie whose special interest is 'empowering people'
Email: empowerme58@gmail.com
Website : www.empower-me.com.au

EmPowerMe Interventions is a clinic that offers psychological and complementary therapies. It is a place that individuals, families and children can come to be taken care of in a wholistic way tending to your mind body and spirit. We offer reiki, hypnotherapy for weight loss smoking, naturopathy, homeopathy, traditional chinese medicine, life coaching, psychotherapy, psycho-legal information and support, counselling and assessment. All of our practitioners and psychologists are highly trained and skilled in their particular fields and all have their own specializations.

Tell us about your special interest : My main interest is and always has been people. People and how they behave are fascinating to me in that we are so complex and multi layered. An interest that is dear to my heart is empowering people to do whatever it is they want to do, or feel they need to do in their life. I do this through a variety of different methods. For many years I have worked in the field of family violence assisting men and women to live fear free lives. Initially I worked with men individually and in facilitating groups around their behaviour change and assisting them to understand about the man they want to become. I then moved into working with women around assertiveness whilst also enabling them to begin to live the life they want to live. One of the areas I tend to focus on with people is how to be free from fear.

How long have you been practicing, or working in this area? Approximately 15 years

How did you ‘find’ meditation, and how long have you been practicing meditation? I found meditation at a time when I needed it desperately. In fact it was my teenage son who encouraged me to join a guided meditation group. I have to admit I was highly resistant to this idea partly because of my profession ( not scientific enough!!! ) and I believed I did not need anything like meditation I mean what was it anyway ...... and how would it help me. Ye of little faith I hear you say........ so glad my son was sooooo insistent....... yes that’s right I went along and met some beautiful women who were running the group and that was the beginning.... I have to say it took me a while to go, and then to go back......again and again.... I needed a bit of a rework I think, physically as well as mentally which is of course is what happened........

After many meditations including bizarre experiences, releasing pain during and after meditation with energy balance massages (wonderful thing they are too). I think I was fairly well reworked and re-energized and well and truly “into” meditation.. Our little group has long since disbanded but I am eternally grateful to Mary and Angela the two women who ran the group for introducing me to meditation and its healing powers as well as introducing me back to my heritage that there are many different paths to healing.

Do you have a regular practice? My practice is regular of what I would call mini meditations and it is every evening before sleep

Why meditate? I meditate to calm my mind calm my body and reconnect the two.

Do you have a particular technique(s) that you have found most suitable for you? The most suitable technique for me as well as the simplest is to use diaphragmatic breathing combined with a mantra I have used for a few years now to” invoke the light”

AM or PM? .. Chair, cushion, stool? Generally every evening lying down before sleep however lately it has been whenever I feel the need to meditate which has been am and pm and in the middle too.

Have you attended a meditation retreat? Yes I have attended a weekend womens retreat at Brahma Kumaris in Baxter.

Any favourite books/CDs/Resources that you might share with others? One of my all time favourite books is “The little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exuperys. This book was suggested to me when i was in my 20’s.... dont be fooled by its title or appearance as I was and nearly didnt read it.... It is an amazing, moving and beautiful experience to read. A fantastic CD and resource is Meditation with Angels by Martine Salerno. No 4 the violet flame was an inspiration and incredibly healing meditation for me when I was in dire need of something more powerful and spiritual than what was around me at the time.

Any thoughts you might share with those who are new to meditation? I would say to anyone who is new to meditation..... if after you have tried meditation and you believed “it didnt work” try, try, try again. .. as with everything worthwhile it takes time and practice. Remember there is no perfect way to meditate only your way to meditate. Oh yes dont worry if aches and pains seem to come out of knowhere.....this is the body attempting to release some of the emotional content that you have been carrying and you need to release it

7 Random things about you? Hmmm random let me think i like spiders and bugs and all things nature.....

my practice isn't working

2011-03-02T15:36:00.000-08:00

From one of my favourite bloggers .. finely targeted, heartwarming and wise words that pop into my inbox most days and inspire me to keep breathing and practicing! Thanks you Karen Maezen Miller - find her here

my practice isn’t working

If my practice doesn’t make me more tolerant, humble,
and generous,
my practice isn’t working.
If my practice doesn’t make me more respectful, loving, and
sympathetic,
my practice isn’t working.
If I can’t forgive and forget
begin again
stop, drop
turn around
wake up
say hello say goodbye
be kind be quiet be still
listen laugh
cry it out
give it time
sit down stand up
get over myself
smile
admit I don’t know
then my practice isn’t working.
If I’m not less cynical, less critical, less arrogant, less mean
then my practice isn’t working.
If my practice doesn’t fill me with wonder, gratitude,
fearlessness, faith and trembling doubt
my practice doesn’t work.

Does my practice work?
Only when I practice.
Let’s do it. Soon.

New 5-week Meditation Series

2011-02-25T17:01:00.000-08:00

Exploring Meditation Program

Tue evenings : Parkdale Yacht Club : 1st March

Wed evenings : The Karma Studio (S'ham) : 2nd March

7-8.30pm

An excellent beginners program introducing the 'art and science of meditation'. Run over five weeks this is a wonderful opportunity to explore, discuss and de-mystify this ancient life skill : meditation.

We shall explore :

* core concepts that apply to all meditation
* the 'how' and 'why'
* stress and how to better manage
* a variety of different technques .. some short 'spot' meditations and longer practices
* trouble-shoot common hurdles
* measuring progress
* starting a daily meditation practice.

A five week Program gives us the opportunity to learn, practice and discuss ~ and there is a workbook to take home to support your home practice. The Exploring Meditation Program is $150 (but only $135 each if you bring a friend).

Bookings essential for all classes. Contact Sarah to register your place on quietmind@dodo.com.au or 0417 403 714

2011-02-19T22:34:00.000-08:00

A TASTE OF MEDITATION

PARKDALE YACHT CLUB

TUE 22nd FEBRUARY 7 - 8.30pm

a 1.5hr introduction to the wonderful practice of Meditation

finding the 'pause' button

discovering some inner peace and clarity

experiencing a relaxing guided meditation

and shorter 'mini' meditation

take home notes as well!

Our approach : practical, straightforward and non-religious

Take a breath : workshop only $30

Bookings essential for all classes - email Quiet Mind

Retreat Beat

2011-02-15T17:16:00.000-08:00

RETREAT BEAT

http://www.retreatbeat.blogspot.com/

Ever found yourself yearning for some real time away from the routine and grind of the day to day? Time to explore your meditation practice .. or yoga practice .. or just some space and time to think and clarify and explore?

Well over a year ago I responded to the regular requests of .. 'could I recommend a meditation retreat'?.. and set up a new blog Retreat Beat

Only thing was, then life took off .. and a year has now flown past and I have not had the time to nourish my new blog .. and definitely not had time to attend any retreats! But in recent weeks I have had a yearning to take some time out and refresh my own meditation practice, and wellbeing, and attend another retreat. It may be just a single day .. or a longer retreat (and why have three people already this year suggested I take the plunge and join them in visiting India .. with sooooo many retreat options, a veritable smorgasboard!).

I am not sure what will be the next step .. but it will come. And I do have a renewed interest in tapping into this area and sharing Retreat experiences on the Retreat Beat blog.

So with the next breath .. we start again. Like meditation with every breath we have the opportunity to reconnect with our practice.

CALLING .. bloggers who might like to share their retreat experience! Go to www.retreatbeat.blogspot.com and leave a comment. I am also doing some research for some retreats that I know are coming up this year in Australia (with some truly amazing people and some delicious venues) which I shall put up as soon as I am allowed to :)

This should be fun!

Namaste

Simply Silence tonight

2011-02-13T17:30:00.000-08:00

tonight

Monday 14th February

in Elwood, Melbourne

from 7.30pm-8.30pm

I shall be guiding two meditations

and leaving room for some silence

at Simply Silence

a casual meditation group

an hour

a comfortable seat

the breeze and street scape below us

up amongst the trees

taking a breath

easy

no stress

100 Seconds of Meditation from Wildmind

2011-02-12T20:22:00.000-08:00

This is just wonderful! A great laugh .. take a moment to explore the funny side of meditation (and something I am sure we all have experience with) .. from Sunada at Wildmind Buddhist Meditation (a very informative site with fantastic resources and online meditation courses). Enjoy!

The Breath is Life's Teacher

2011-02-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

This beautiful poem was written by Donna Martin .. and she tells me the poem came to her in a meditation some years ago. My own meditation practice is grounded in the breath and this lovely poem is a timely remind of the beauty and power of the breath. Donna has given me kind permission to reprint here and you can find out more about Donna (who is a Hakomi therapist, stress management consultant and speaker based in Canada) at http://www.donnamartin.net/.

THE BREATH IS LIFE'S TEACHER

Observe me, says the Breath, and learn to live effortlessly in the Present Moment.
Feel me, says the Breath, and feel the Ebb and Flow of Life.
Allow me, says the Breath, and I’ll sustain and nourish you, filling you with energy and cleansing you of tension and fatigue.

Move with me, says the Breath, and I’ll invite your soul to dance.
Make sounds with me and I shall teach your soul to sing.
Follow me, says the Breath, and I’ll lead you out to the farthest reaches of the Universe, and inward to the deepest parts of your inner world.

Notice, says the Breath, that I am as valuable to you coming or going… that every part of my cycle is as necessary as another… that after I’m released, I return again and again… that even after a long pause – moments when nothing seems to happen – eventually I am there.

Each time I come, says the Breath, I am a gift from Life. And yet you release me without regret… without suffering… without fear.
Notice how you take me in, invites the Breath. Is it with joy… with gratitude…? Do you take me in fully… invite me into all the inner spaces of your home? …Or carefully into just inside the door? What places in you am I not allowed to nourish?

And notice, says the Breath, how you release me. Do you hold me prisoner in closed up places in the body? Is my release resisted… do you let me go reluctantly, or easily?

And are my waves of Breath, of Life, as gentle as a quiet sea, softly smoothing sandy stretches of yourself….? Or anxious, urgent, choppy waves…? Or the crashing tumult of a stormy sea…?

And can you feel me as the link between your inner and outer worlds… feel me as Life’s exchange between the Universe and You? The Universe breathes me into You… You send me back to the Universe. I am the flow of life between every single part and the Whole.

Your attitude to me, says the Breath, is your attitude to Life. Welcome me… embrace me fully. Let me nourish you completely, then set me free. Move with me, dance with me, sing with me, sigh with me… Love me. Trust me. Don’t try to control me.

I am the Breath.
Life is the Musician.
You are the flute.
And music – creativity – depends on all of us.
You are not the Creator… nor the Creation.
We are all a part of the process of Creativity…

You, Life, and me: the Breath.

(thank you Donna for sharing your words)

OM Breathing Room

2011-02-03T17:22:00.000-08:00

In meditation class this week we looked at mantra's. It is hard to describe (and experience) the full power of chanting and mantra in the confines of a small general meditation class, and I have never found a really good CD or example to work with.

But this morning I received this fantastic link to DoAsOne which has lead me on a wonderful journey through their website and a brilliant 10 minute OM Room chanting session (shared with others around the world).

If you want to read a little more about the mantra OM .. I did write more in an earlier post What is this Om? And I highly recommend that if you are interested in experiencing this wonderful meditation practice then please visit DoAsOne .. you can set the timer for as long as you like, or just freeform like I did .. and time just slows beautifully.

DoAsOne.com have a vision of one billion people breathing together synchronously by November 11, 2012. They are also collaborating with Elevate Films in documenting His Holiness The Dalai Lama this week in the historic teachings of The Buddha Maitreya in India (February 5th & 6th). His Holiness has called forth over 10,000 monks and travelers from around the globe to help initiate the teachings of The Buddha Maitreya, the intentions of which are to bring abundance and joy to all of humanity. This is the first time that a Dalai Lama has conducted such a sacred blessing. During these two days people can breath together synchronously in DoAsOne's Universal Breathing Room (UBR).

Sustaining a practice

2011-01-28T20:58:00.000-08:00

Sustaining a practice

• Sit every day even if its just for a short period. Intentionally dedicating this time of quieting – is a gift to the soul!

• A few times each day (or each hour on the hour) just PAUSE. Re-establish contact with your body and breath. Pause to explore a moment in time – the space of a pause will allow you to rebalance, regroup and come home.

• Reflect regularly on your intention for starting meditation – health, happiness etc

• Join a meditation group or practice with friends. Use inspiring books, reading inspiring articles or listen to beautiful guided meditation CDs. Feed yourself.

• If you miss a practice for a day, a week or a year – simply begin again. Simple.

• Don’t judge your practice – rather accept what unfolds and trust in your capacity to be with yourself and to learn.

• The art of meditation is to practice with curiosity, kindness and a gentle touch.

You have embarked on a journey that others have done over thousands of years. May their awakening inspire and support you. May the sincerity of your practice heal and free your spirit. (Tara Brachs)

Note: I found this note in an old journal .. I think it is quite a lovely reminder and so I copied it here. I am not sure if I wrote this but if in fact this belongs to YOU .. please let me know and I would be happy to give due credit.

Attention in Meditation

2011-01-27T20:52:00.000-08:00

Attention in meditation .. is like the fish at the end of the rod.
Everytime he tries to get away ..

we feel it and we gently reel him back in.

Even if we have to do this time and time again.

Just quietly and gently we return to the task.
We sit. We watch. We remain attentive. We meditate.

Photo courtesy of stock.xchng : Fish by sundarksom

Evolve Yoga & Wellness Festival

2011-01-26T16:35:00.000-08:00

One for the diary .. all those lucky enough to be in Melbourne on March 27th!

The Evolve Yoga & Wellness Festival is being held in the heritage listed Abbotsford Convent. This inaugural event is described as 'an intimate, boutique event exploring a range of yoga styles and natural therapies'.

And not just yoga (for those of you thinking as I did that it will be all asana, asana, asana) .. THRILLED to find there is the Peace Room which has a full day of Meditation and Pranayama sessions (as well as wellness traders market, massage and discussions).

I have already got my ticket (which are ridiculously cheap if you get in early) .. so will I see you there?

Click here to view the full Evolve Program

Letter to a new meditator ...

2011-01-20T03:08:00.000-08:00

Ahh summer days .. lazy days of sunshine, salt and sand, bleached hair, late nights .. today I had an hour at the beach to read in the sun, meet a new friend, watch the girls training on their boards .. easy days.

I had grabbed a couple of magazines that I had been meaning to read. Opened the current January 2011 edition of Australia Yoga Journal .. and read the most wonderful article by Sally Kempton 'Letter to a new Meditator' .. I felt like I could have been reading my own words .. in fact so many of the analogies and words she used I have been known to utter myself .. by the end I was convinced that I must have read and taken ownership of her exact philosophy, or perhaps we are all connected in ways that all of a sudden seemed so obvious!

Starting with ...

"If I had to tell you only one thing about meditation, it would be this: meditation is your personal experiment, performed in the laboatory of your own mind and body. Your practice will be inspired by teachers and guided by the practices that the great explorers of meditation have handed down to us. Yet in the end, the form your practice takes is uniquely yours."

I loved this article .. I have now found it on Sally's website and highly highly recommend that you take a cup of coffee, turn on your favourite music and enjoy the read .. especially if you are new to meditation. I simply couldn't put it better myself.

*Daisy chains made by your 13yo on a lazy summer day .. and placed into a heart for a photograph .. are the perfect summer activity*

The Experience of Meditation

2011-01-15T13:13:00.000-08:00

Such exciting news .. and a great start to 2011!

'RedBalloon is changing gifting in Australia forever'

RedBalloon give experiences! From gift vouchers to vibrant gift boxes, to that special and unique experience that someone has always wanted to do .. hot air ballooning, jet boat racing in Sydney Harbour, massage, race driving ... and now Meditation!

I heard Naomi Simpson (CEO and Founder of RedBalloon) give a talk following her win of the 2008 national Telstra Business Womens Award .. an inspiring story and an inspiring speaker! I have also been following her amazingly successful journey via her blog .. and her appearance on television (2010 included Secret Millionaire and mentoring a new business on Kochies Business Builders).

SO .. when I found there was no Meditation classes available at RedBalloon ... I sent an email!

.. and I am so excited that now YOU can now gift the amazing life skill of meditation to those who need a tool to self manage their stress and find a little 'chill' .. just click RedBalloon and Meditation Classes at RedBalloon

Simply Silence : Group Meditation

2011-01-09T03:25:00.000-08:00

tomorrow evening Monday 10th January

in Elwood, Melbourne

from 7.30pm-8.30pm

I shall be guiding two meditations

and leaving room for some silence

at Simply Silence

a casual meditation group

an hour

a comfortable seat

the breeze and street scape below us

up amongst the trees

taking a breath

easy

no stress

quiet mind meditation

laughter meditation ... so good .. hahaha!

Innovation in Airports (finally!)

clear starlit sky ..

Let's Explore Meditation together ..

Re~leas~ing

Buddha Standard Time

Silence and Solitude .. and Sarah McLean (Sedona Meditation)

Inspiring Quote ...

Is Learning to Meditate one of your 2012 Intentions?

Pebble for Your Pocket Meditation

Meditation in the news ...

Intentions or Resolutions ..

Is it time? Meditation .. a life skill!

To you ...

Oprah .. and meditation

The Gift That Keeps On Giving ..

Be Courageous

rest. be still. breathe.

Gwen Stefani & meditation

A sweet deal .. learn more about meditation

Join Us .. Christmas Concert

Golf .. and meditation

Join Us .. Group Meditation

Emotional Intelligence & Meditation

Meditation : The New Corporate Wellness Tool

Final Meditation Classes for 2011

Meditation and Tinnitus

Monday Meditation Musings

'My body travels. I never leave home'

Guided Meditation

Meditation and Running - Opposites?

Procrastination

One-ness ..

Inspiring Quote ~ October 2011

Australian Meditation Conference

What seeds are you planting?

New Meditation Classes : Starting Next Week

Sitting

Almost ..

Find The Stillness (CD)

NEW Meditation Classes .. starting tomorrow!

Morning Rituals

Observing your thoughts ..

Judith Lucy's Spiritual Journey

Group Meditation .. Join us!

Just .. a taste!

Fascinating Meditation Facts

Just Because ... its Friday!

Meditation in the News

Meditation Exercises

Day 1 : A Kalachakra Pilgrim in Washington

Focus On : Clare from my spa guide

Cleaning As Meditation

Celebrities Who Meditate!

Simply Silence .. Monday night

A Meditation Coach

Going Away To Go Within

The wind .. of the mind

Community

Time for practice ..

News Bites : Meditation

Winter Solstice Meditation

Brrrrr its cold outside

Telephone Spot Meditation

QM Meditation Bracelet

Medical Sector Offering Meditation

Susan Piver : The Open Heart Project

Meditation Classes Starting Tonight ...

Meditation Cultivates Attentional Skills

New Classes : 4th May

Easter Gift

Pausing

Meditation to Curb Pain .. new study

East West College *new classes*

21 Day Meditation Challenge : Chopra Centre

Meditation Improves Meetings

Sarah McLean, Sedona Meditation Training Company

Yoga Nidra in the Gardens

Tomorrow .. a day of meditation

East West College new classes