Infinite Path Martial Arts

Martial Arts and Yoga for Those Seeking More

On the Path:

Meditation: Part One

Meditation is an ancient, universal method of mind/body discipline used by millions of individuals to calm the mind and body, relieve stress, and deepen one's powers of concentration. Meditation can be practiced by anyone.

The body, mind, and breath are interrelated. When one is excited, afraid, or angry, that person's breath becomes more rapid and fluttery, from high in the chest. When one is calm, peaceful, and centered, the breath is slower and deeper from the center of the body. By developing conscious control over the breath, one gains increasing control over the mind, thoughts, and resulting experience (feeling states).

Most are familiar with the concept of "taking a few deep breaths" as a means of re-centering his/her self. Most know the method works, but few understand why it works, and even fewer ponder the implications of consistent study and practice. In true martial and yogic training, proper breathing is the single most important physical component. In this modern age, more and more individuals are interested in this timeless method of personal expansion.

Practice:

Sit with the legs-crossed, kneeling (seiza), or in a chair with the feet flat on the floor

The spine must be held straight (chin parrallel to the ground, tip of the tongue lightly touching the roof of the mouth)

Shoulders slightly back, chest slightly out

Hands resting at the hip/abdominal juncture

The eyes are closed or half-open, and the gaze is directed to the point between the eyebrows (but not crossed-eyed, nor straining in any way)

The body must remain still. With practice, bringing conscious stillness to the body becomes a welcome refuge of self rejuvenation

Watching the Breath:

Fully engross the concentration on observing the naturally occurring inflow and outflow of the breath

Do not regulate, force, hold, evaluate, or judge the breath in any way; simply witness the flow as if you were observing the breath of another

Every time you find that the mind has wandered from the breath, do not stop to criticize, simply return the awareness to the breath

Consistency is the foundation of developing a rewarding practice of meditation

Begin with five minutes per day. When that becomes easier, advance to ten minutes and so on

Getting Started:

This basic method is the most fundamental meditation technique and the precursor to all higher techniques. Adopting the practice, one adds to a worldwide movement of individuals choosing to consciously unlock the unique, infinite potential within, thereby leading happier, healthier, more meaningful lives. Infinite Path Martial Arts offers free meditation classes on Thursday evenings 8:00-8:30 (seasonal offering). All are welcome (you do not have to be enrolled at I.P.M.A. to attend).

Back Button

Interested individuals are invited to contact us to schedule a free introductory class.
Infinite Path Martial Arts
509 Fisher Court - Clawson, MI 48017
248-336-8488
Contact Us: ipmacontact@yahoo.com