Information on meditation for beginners is available from many sources – there are some excellent websites and many books on the subject that are ideal for those who are exploring the subject for the first time (see the book and CD recommendations at the bottom of this page!).

Meditation is fast becoming a popular way to relax and find peace within today’s hectic society. Many people seek out meditation as an antidote to stress and anxiety, and if you are new to meditation it is worth persevering to reach the state of mind that will bring about the most peace within you.

One way to get the most from meditation for beginners is to create an area especially designed for the purpose of meditating. In theory you can meditate pretty much anywhere, and as you become more experienced at it you will find it much easier to do, but meditation for beginners is best undertaken somewhere quiet, peaceful and free from clutter.

Choose a Meditation Spot

First of all, consider which areas of your home would work best as a calm space. Perhaps you could use a corner of your bedroom as a meditation area? A spare bedroom works well as it’s unlikely you will be disturbed as you meditate, but wherever you choose, try and make sure you have the space and comfort to sit and relax.

Meditation for beginners can be tricky to get the hang of at first, as you need to learn to calm your mind and free it from the thoughts that are usually vying for your attention.

Some people find that having a dedicated place for meditating helps them to reach that calm state in the early days, and you can use various other ways to help create that space within your home.

Candles are very relaxing to watch and focus your attention on. Watching the flame flicker can help to dispel any surplus thoughts in your head and make it easier to enter a state of meditation. Some people use a statue – the classic pose of a Buddha is a good example of this.

Half the battle in meditation for beginners is to make sure you won’t be disturbed. Turn the phone off, and try and pick a time when you are alone in the house, to minimise the risk of interruptions.

TIP: You may also consider a quiet place outside if you have one available, such as a park bench, beside a stream or pond, or on a rocky outcrop.

Meditation takes practice to get right, but one of the advantages it offers is the ability to do it anywhere you wish. As a stress reliever, it comes highly recommended.