Last month’s (July 2010) Shambhala Sun is all about Meditation.

They put out an issue every year that focuses on meditation; the how to’s, why, and informative pieces regarding styles, traditions and history. Last years issue was good. But this years issue is REALLY good.  I highly recommend this issue if you have ever had questions regarding meditation. It is full of great articles.

Also some other great sites to check out if you need some tips, tools etc..:

Treeleaf Zendo- I downloaded their 10, 20 and 30 minute bell chime onto my MP3 player. It is perfect for me. I just press play and forget about watching the clock. Plus they have a “sit-a-long” every Saturday (live feed). If you can’t get to a zendo or just curious about zen meditation- this might be a good place to start. It takes away the scary commitment of walking into a zendo without any prior knowledge. They have a great online forum as well. I actually read about this place in last years issue. I’ve used the timer ever since but recently joined their boards. Since my time has become so limited to travel to a zendo; it is nice to have a group of people to talk with regarding zen meditation.

Buddha.net there is SO much on this site. Pretty much anything you could ask for.

Access to Insight- this site is full of articles and exploration of Buddhist texts such as the Pali Canon and Dhammapada

That should keep you busy for a bit! I highly recommend books by:

Thich Nhaht Hanh- his approach to buddhism and meditation is just pure and simple. Miracle of Mindfulness is a must, I am also enjoying Heart of Buddha’s Teachings

Pema Chodron- Her books are so inspiring and “real” also her audio books are wonderful for commuters. I enjoyed her “Don’t bite the Hook” all about anger (helps with road rage)

Ajahn Chah (he has the best smile!) but don’t get his books solely on his warm and sweet smile! He has downloadable teachings as well (I love technology)

Bhante Henepola Gunaratana- also a great author (according to my husband- His books are next up on my list of what I need to read) but his videos are wonderful as well!

Dhamma Tube- Talks by both Ajahn Chaha and Bhante Henepola Guaratana. Seriously, technology is awesome!

Erich Schiffmann- This site is loaded with dharma talks by Erich. I have not practiced with Erich- but he is very influential in my daily asana and meditation practice. His Dharma talks are funny and insightful.

So yes, as you can tell I am heavily influenced by Buddhism. But, you do not need to be a Buddhist to meditate. I am just passing along some links that I personally enjoy. Please know that meditation can be applied to any belief system or no beliefe system at all!

A good meditation seat is a must for a sustainable practice. I use both a Kneeling bench and Zafu that is filled with buckwheat hulls (much better than cotton- in my opinion). When my sciatica is acting up I use the kneeling bench (keeps my internal rotation of the thighs and less sciatica pain) My husband uses a Gomden seat; it is higher and much more comfortable for his hips. These are all great options. And a chair is great as well.

Some DVDs that incorporate both yoga and meditation:

Insight yoga with Sarah Powers This DVD has a mixture of Yin sequences, Yang sequences and guided meditation. A great home practice compaion (steeped in buddhism as well)

Dharma Mittra Maha Sadhana Level 1- I am grateful to my best friend that took me to my fist Dhama yoga class and then we were able to spend a week with this amazing teacher. This DVD is a wonderful addition to your home practice. The DVD is also suitable for beginners with yoga. Not only is this a wonderful Hatha yoga DVD, but he has spirtual discourses and guidded meditation. Truly worth it!

I hope some of this information is helpful for you. If you have any questions let me know.

Start off slow. Aim for just 5 minutes a day; try for the same time each day. I promise you that you will begin to see a difference in yourself and in your life. I sturggle with keeping a consistant practice; however I know it is the “medicine” I need. What do you have to loose? Give it a try!

Please share your questions and experiences below.

Happy meditating!

The author, Flo Sheffield, is a passionate yoga student and self-proclaimed Southern Yogini.  She found that AYC was her yoga home after completing the five day Vinyasa training in 2009. Flo resides in Newnan, Georgia with her husband, English bulldog named Chai and old lady cat named Maggie. Visit Flo’s blog at http://southernyogini.wordpress.com

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