Objectives

• Examine the notion of meditation as universal
• Explore its possible purpose
• Apply three simple meditative techniques
• Reflect on at least one
• Discuss and share your reflections

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Is meditation an elementary idea?

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"The art of meditation is a way of getting in touch with reality...most civilized people are out of touch with reality because they confuse the world as it is with the world as they think about it, talk about it and describe it."
Alan Watts

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Your practice

• Find a quiet, secluded spot where you won't be disturbed
• Sit or stand in a comfortable but alert posture
• For one minute apply one of the techniques described
• After, consider the experience
• Write down your thoughts

Share your thoughts

• On the online discussion forum
• Also, comment on at least one person's post

Meditation is a practice

• Consistency is important
• It should not however be a grim duty
• The main reward is the practice itself
• Few human activities are like this
• Exceptions, music and dancing if you enjoy it

Summary

• Meditative practices evolved independently
• Possibly to address human notions of time
• And awareness
• Basic techniques are about relaxed focus
• Like music and dance, it is a practice