Most of us are familiar with the term "meditation." It is commonly described as an exercise to quiet the mind in order to release or eradicate thoughts and emotions that cause stress and anxiety. Meditation also improves concentration, and is, undoubtedly, a valuable tool, offering relief from various emotional and physical maladies.

We may ask, "Why does meditation have such a miraculous effect on our minds and bodies? How is it we may heal ourselves or improve our lives so dramatically through meditation?" If we approach these questions from a medical point of view, how would we explain it? Perhaps we may conclude that when we quiet the mind, all electrical activities and pathways slow down, thereby allowing the physical and mental processes to rest and heal. These biological processes, or electrical activities, have become overworked and therefore become strained. Meditation rests our internal organs, as if to slow down the engine of a speeding car, and this is how the body creates the environment to heal itself.

However, if we approach meditation from a religious or spiritual standpoint, we find a more profound meaning. Here we experience meditation as a form of silent prayer, an appeal to a Power greater than ourselves. Here, meditation is a way to communicate with G-d.

In meditation, the focus of our prayer, of our communication with G-d, is through our mind, our heart and soul. It is at this time when we are closest to G-d; it is in this holy place that we may invoke G-d's help. Meditation allows us to focus on our needs, on the needs of others and upon our gratitude for our many blessings. In this way, we not only help ourselves, but the power of our prayer also extends outwardly to others. We often remind people that a prayer can be expressed in action, as well as in thought, as well as in words. A mitzvah, a good deed, an effort to do something good for another, all are, in themselves, a form of prayer.

In Judaism, in the Sacred Scriptures, it is said that prayer (or meditation) enables us to open a clear channel between the Divine MInd and the human mind, it allows us to connect and become as one. We tap the inner resources of our soul wherein G-d resides; in this silence and kinship, in this state of divine closeness, rests the opportunity to affirm for help, and to receive help. Whatever we need or desire, either for ourselves, or for someone else, G-d hears our call, our prayer; and our prayers, when offered earnestly and wholeheartedly, are always answered.It is in the silence of our minds that G-d can hear us best. As the Psalmist says: "Only for G-d doth my soul wait in stillness; from Him cometh my salvation."

How Do We Meditate?

We mentioned earlier of using your home, but in truth almost any place that offers an opportunity for quietude is ideal. "G-d is everywhere, ever present. Every atom and part of the universe is filled with His presence." 3 Here we see, anywhere we go, there is G-d; and anywhere there is G-d, we can meditate. While G-d is to be found in all things He created, He resides within us to a greater degree than in His other forms of creation. We say that "G-d is in His holy temple," 4 meaning: in our body, which is a sanctuary, and specifically in our heart. This means He is always with us and available to hear our appeal. We do not even have to speak the words, for G-d knows our needs.

You may say: "There's no time in my day to meditate." Would you also say: "There is no time in my day to eat?" Is not one as important as the other? Do we not need both to create balance in our life, to become well grounded? Consider your daily activities: what is important to you? What is frivolous? Focus on what is vital and lend it your time and effort, then discard the wasteful aspects of your day. Simplify your life. As a good house needs a strong foundation, we too need a strong foundation. This can be achieved by forming a strong relationship with G-d, who will guide you and sustain you in all areas of life. All of these can be achieved with the aid of meditation.

To start, you may wish to select from the suggested list below, from the "Message of the Week" on our Home Page, from the "Affirmations" page, or from the list of "suggested readings" following the meditations below. Or, you may prefer a meditation from your own inspiration or imaged thought.