YBites

There is nothing mystical or complicated about meditation - in fact, the reverse is true.

But it is challenging, and there is plenty of confusion about what is it, and how meditation can help.

'There are nine types of interruptions to developing mental clarity - illness, mental stagnation, doubts, lack of foresight, fatigue, overindulgence, illusions about one's true state of mind, lack of perseverance, and regression. They are obstacles because they create mental disturbances and encourage distractions.'

'All that we are is the result of what we have thought. If a man speaks or acts with an evil thought, pain follows him. If a man speaks or acts with a pure thought, happiness follows him, like a shadow that never leaves him.'

The Buddha

'Your own positive future begins in this moment. All you have is right now. Every goal is possible from here. But even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there. Take the first step. Whatever you undertake, do it with full intent to succeed. Cynicism fails itself. Stick to your path, facing difficulties with positive humour.'

We live in a wired, 24/7 culture, and taking time out to switch off may not be a top priority.

But learning how to tune out of the demands of life now and again is essential for our emotional and mental wellbeing.

Creating space in the day for stillness will help keep anxiety levels in check and problems in perspective. Here are a few pointers.