For those lades who missed out on the camp here is an opportunity to do some meditation in your own time. This is an excerpt from an article I wrote from a magazine which gives you a brief explanation and a step by step guide on the ‘how to’ of meditation and the basics.
There are many different methods of meditation but the simplest way to reach this peaceful state is to focus entirely on the body and the breath. This practice is known as “mindful meditation” or “focused attention.” Our breath is one of the only things that is autonomous that we can actually control.
Here’s how to do it:
Start by finding a comfortable place to sit or lie down without being distracted.
Close your eyes and inhale slowly for a count of six to eight. Then exhale slowly for a count of six to eight.
When you inhale, imagine you are breathing in clean light air or energy, and when you exhale, imagine you are releasing dark air or energy that your body needs to clear.
Keep this focus on the breath while trying to relax every part of your body. Visualize moving down your body from the top of your head down to the tips of your toes. As you move through each part of your body, allow for the relaxation to set in, specifically taking advantage of each exhale to further relax your muscles.
Enjoy the stillness. If a stray thought comes into your mind, push it out by returning your focus to your breath or to the relaxed muscles in your body. Every time a thought comes into your mind, replace it as soon as you are aware of it.
Deep, calm, and purposeful breathing has been shown to relax your body by slowing down your central nervous system (which can be over-activated from anxiety and stress). Meditation has been shown to repair the central nervous system like a good night's sleep. Reduced stress also means lowered cortisol levels and lower blood pressure, increased immune function, and increased mental wellbeing.