How to Get Into Deep Meditation

This is the method I personally use to get into very deep meditation.

It is somewhat different from what I've seen other people suggest or recommend. But it's what works for me.

Using this method, I can get deeply relaxed enough that I can perform self-hypnosis if I want to. I don't reccommend trying to learn or practice self-hypnosis on your own, however. For some people it can have dangerous consequences. If you want to learn self-hypnosis, have a professional work with you, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.

Get into a comfortable position. I can't sit up in awkward positions for meditation, so I lay on my back usually, with my feet crossed, and my hands on my chest or stomach. What ever feels the most comfortable and realxing.

The only thing I recommend regarding this is to NOT get into a position you normally use for sleeping. I never sleep on my back, so this is a good postion for me. You can do it sitting up, laying down, whatever is comfortable for you.

Next, just try to relax your body for a minute or so. Notice if there are any tense muscles, and try to relax them if possible. keep your eyes closed throughout the entire process.

Before you start, tell yourself in your mind that you want to meditate, and for how long. Your mind is a good time keeper, and you will usually be in a meditative state for that amount of time if you're doing it right. Just say something,internally, like "I'm going to meditate for 15 minutes now". I do this so I don't drift off to sleep, which can happen occasionally. And that is defeating the purpose, because the meditative state is quite different from sleep.

Now that you're ready, just start breathing in and out of your nose. Don't try to count the seconds of the inhale and exhale or anything, just breathe naturally. You don't want to force it. Some types of meditaion require certain counts for breaths, but this is just a simple relaxation technique.

You can use a mantra if you with, such as "om". It isn't necessary. I sometimes use it, and sometimes not. It is most effective if you are having trouble clearing your mind of thought. If you don't want to use a mantra, and you can relax just by breathing, then that's great.

That's it. It really works to relax, and is good to do once or twice a day. just make sure you have a peaceful place and time to relax, without any distractions.