Rush Hour Meditation, Easier Than You May Think

Meditation is an ancient practice that has alwaysthrough your nose. As you inhale, allow your
had positive effects on health and mood. Whatabdomen to fill with air first, then slowly bring up
allows meditation practice to persist is that in canthe air into your chest and upper chest. Exhale in
be practice just about anywhere, and by anyone.reverse through the nose, allowing your chest to
One opportunity for meditating is oftenempty first, then your abdomen. Make sure that
overlooked as being too noisy, the 'Rush Hour'your exhalations are longer than your inhalations
The Rush Hour can be a noisy environment andas this will help your body to relax more quickly.
the ride to work may leave one exhausted andStep Five: After your breathing becomes
moody, making for a bad day. The followingrhythmic, focus your attention to the point
exercise can increase your energy for the daybetween your eyebrows and begin to notice the
and allow you to arrive to work in a positivesounds coming through your ears. Whether it is
mood. It can be practiced on a train, bus or plane.the noises of the vehicle you are riding, people
You can begin this exercise passively, graduallytalking, or even the music from someone's
increasing the time you spend. With practice, yourwalkman, feel the vibrations of the sounds
rush hour will become a smooth ride.entering your body. Direct these sound vibrations
First step: Find a seat. You may also do thistowards the point between the eyebrows.
standing up, but make sure that you and yourStep Six: While maintaining the deep rhythmic
property is secure.breath, allow the sound to become part of
Step Two: Once you have found your seat, sityou...imagine that you are immersed in a sea of
down comfortably with your back straight anddifferent sounds and vibrations and allow them to
head level. If standing, make sure your back isbecome part of you and you part of it.
straight and feet are firm.This may be practiced throughout your ride, or in
Step Three: Place both hands, palms down, flat onbetween stops. Start slowly, practicing this for a
your knees, if you have a bag or backpack, placepart of your trip, and gradually work your way
it on your lap and run your hands and armsup. Be aware at all times and refrain from falling
through the straps and clasp your hands together.asleep. It will be tough at first, but with practice,
If standing, hold on to a strap or pole and makeit'll become easier. This exercise will also help with
sure you are secure.your regular meditation practice as it will help still
Step Four: Close your eyes and breathe deeplythe mind.