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There are many different types and methods of mediation, but the primary purpose of all meditation is to discipline the mind. The part of the mind that most requires discipline is that which in the west is called the inner monologue. In the east, it is appropriately called “the chattering monkey.”

Once technique for calming the mind is to first calm the body through disciplined breathing.

Begin by breathing in, for the count of 10, through the nose slowly and deeply. Hold the breath for a count of 3. Then, to the count of 10, slowly exhale through the mouth. Hold for a count of 3.

Rhythmically breathe in and out in this way 10. Then rest.

After you have rested a few minutes, repeat the exercise again, but this time close your eyes and see only black. Focus on seeing the blackest shade of black that you have ever seen before.

When a thought enters your mind, which it inevitably will, simply dismiss it. Tell yourself that you will think that thought later, but right now your job is to breathe in and out and see only black. Keep breathing and, again, see only black.

At the end of 10 or more breathing repetitions, you should rest.

Each time, as you resume this meditation exercise of simply breathing and seeing black with your eyes closed, you will find that it is becoming easier to complete a session without disruptive thoughts. Each time you do this exercise, extend the number of breathing repetitions. You will go from being able to focus for short periods of time to increasingly longer periods of time.

The purpose of meditation is to focus and discipline the mind because doing so relaxes you and puts you more in control of your mind. As you meditate, you begin to realize that you are not your thoughts, but something greater than that. Silencing the chattering monkey helps your higher consciousness to regain and maintain control on the physical plane.