Meditate

Meditation is a powerful tool to change thought patterns and bring new ways of thinking and behaving into your life. Read 2nd Avenue posts about meditation.

Modern science is just starting to demonstrate the physical and mental benefits as outlined in this article from New Scientist:

There is some evidence that meditation boosts the immune response in vaccine recipients and people with cancer, protects against a relapse in major depression, soothes skin conditions and even slows the progression of HIV.

Silent meditation is always an option, but it can be challenging to let go of the external world and turn your focus inward. Check out some recommended music below, or just focus on your breath and let the thoughts pass through your mind without lingering.

Meditation music

This is some of my favourite meditation music. Sometimes I chant along with a song and other times I simply sit quietly and let the sound absorb into my mind. Click on the iTunes button to purchase a specific song.

• Aad Guray by Deva Premal
  For protection and clarity. Some people chant this mantra before driving or in other situations where they need protective energy. This version makes me feel as though I’m standing in a glorious cathedral and immediately calms me.
• Adi Shakti Namo: Your Primal Power by SatKirin Kaur Khalsa
  Upbeat and energizing. Also know as the First Shakti Mantra, it helps remove fears and focus on what really needs to be done.
• Gobinday Mukunday by Sada Sat Kaur
  A quicker, more energizing version of the “Git ‘er done” mantra. Good for reviving the spirit and enhancing energy.
• Gobinday Mukunday by Snatam Kaur
  To help move through difficult situations. I affectionately think of it as the “Git ‘er done” mantra, although it’s much more peaceful than that label implies.
• Har Hare Haree by Gurudass
  Also called the Seed Mantra, this is the meditation for the second Meditation Challenge of 2012. Its quick pace makes 11 minutes go very quickly!
• Mul Mantra by Snatam Kaur 
  The February Full Moon Meditation at Bound Lotus Meditation & Yoga Centre was the mul mantra. I think this is the most beautiful version of it – very heart-centred and grounding.
• Ong Namo – I Bow by Gurunam Singh
  Also called the Adi Mantra, chanting Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo starts off every Kundalini yoga class. It’s a reminder to honour (or bow to) all the teachers that came before and the wisdom that lives within.
• Ong So Hung by Guru Singh
  Great before bed meditation. I find it completely relaxes me and sometimes even puts me to sleep… it’s my secret weapon for conquering jet lag.
• Pavan Guru – Lord of the Wind by Gurunam Singh
  The “May the Force be with You” mantra, Pavan Guru increases energy and stimulates healing.
• Ra Ma Da Sa by Snatam Kaur
  Wonderful restorative kundalini mantra. When someone I love needs some healing, I’ll chant this mantra and send my energy to them… at least it makes me feel like I’m doing something!