A move from a hectic, clutterfilled life towards a simple, calm life is not made easily. One of the steps that will really make you feel calm is meditation. But how can you sit down and meditate when there is chaos in your head? When every moment you sit still and close your eyes, a todo list is played off in your head?

Here are a couple simple steps to begin quieting down your mind, and flow into meditation.

Step 1
Find your Mantra
Think of a word that you can repeat and that reinforces calm and positivity inside of you. A word that reinforces you, and that countermands all the negativity running amok inside your brain.   A couple of examples: you can use Om, which is the most powerful Indian mantra. You can also use a word like love, peace, calm. Just find a word or a line that just goes with you (mine is bliss, but I also use Om, or the Tara mantra). When you have the word, write it down on a piece of paper.

Step 2
Prepare
Put on something comfortable, something that fits loosely around your body, no need for that business suit, or the skinny dress, just wear something you love to wear, or wear nothing, anything that makes you feel comfy and at home with yourself. The wear nothing part works especially well when you are in a bath :D Then go to your favorite spot in the house, and put on some soft instrumental music (if you are not alone in the house you could put on some headphones), light one big candle, and some smaller ones if you like. Surround yourself with things that you love to have around you.

Step 3
Find the quiet place inside you
Get out your sheet of paper with your mantra, and put it next to the candle. Turn off all the electric lights, and just sit down, Gaze into the candle, and observe your thoughts. Every time a thought pops up in your mind, just repeat the line. Slow down your breath, you could use this simple pranayama.

• Breathe in for 5 counts
• Hold breath for 5 counts
• Breathe out for 5 counts
• Be still for 5 counts

Count slowly, there is no rush this time. Whenever your thoughts push themselves forward, just repeat the mantra for yourself. It will not be easy that first time, but with time it will be easier and easier. You can also do this perfectly in the bath, just put the candle somewhere on a ledge, where it's safe, and just stare at it while you are immersed in water.

Enjoy your meditation journey!

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