Buddha Community

Pay attention and allow the mind to settle and clarity arises.
(Let the cursor rest on the image - the ripples will gradually cease. If you move the cursor, the disturbances may create a circular 'skeeter' effect.)

Buddhist meditation is about  paying attention to the contents of the mind. There are  different varieties of meditation technique. However, perhaps the two most widely practised are Samatha and Vipassana. Samatha meditation is commonly based upon gently paying attention to the breath or other bodily sensation. Every time we become mindful that our attention has wandered, we gently bring it back to watching the breath again. We do not force the breath or try to control it, but simply pay close attention, using mindfulness and concentration. We practice this in an upright and comfortable posture for between fifteen minutes and an hour. With continued effort this leads to calm and tranquil states of mind.

Vipassana is often based upon first establishing a degree of 'collectedness' from Samatha practice and then allowing thoughts and sensations to arise. We notice the thought, feeling or sensation, perhaps name it (for example 'anger' or 'boredom') and then allow whatever has arisen to pass away. We gradually realise that all thoughts are impermanent, linked with dissatisfaction, and impersonal.

These methods train us to concentrate and enable insight to arise into the nature of our minds.

Although meditation might seem to be a passive  activity from the perspective of our energetic and ambitious minds, those practising meditation are actually engaged in a  demanding and rewarding activity. There is  plenty of objective scientific evidence, that regular meditation has many positive physical benefits for our bodies as well as improving our ability to concentrate and reduce stress levels. Much recent research has confirmed that practising  Buddhists are happier people.

For a good introduction to meditation, it is invaluable to attend a workshop or other group which includes experienced meditators. Groups not only provide a supportive atmosphere, but enable those just starting meditation to raise questions. Fellowship - finding a good group of friends who are all treading the same or similar path is a very important support for practice.  The groups listed on this page are a good place to start.

For a wealth of excellent guides to meditation and the Buddhist path try here:
http://www.amaravati.org/abmnew/index.php/teachings/eArticles
For an excellent essay on concentration and mindfulness read this from Thanissaro