My definition of “meditation” is somewhat broad. I consider it an opportunity for each of us to realize our higher consciousness (or to realize our unity with our higher consciousness) and to let go of the resistance.

Benefits and Techniques of Meditation

There are many benefits to meditation, which I see as side effects or extras, rather than the main purpose of meditation. However, many people are inspired to meditate because of the benefits or perceived benefits, such as better health, more peace of mind, less sleep at night. Regular meditators are generally more attentive, aware, and calm.

Given my broad definition, perhaps you can understand that I acknowledge the existence of hundreds of techniques and advocate a variety. Some are more understanding than others; some are more conducive to continuing a practice long term than others; some are easier to learn than others. A technique is a means to help you achieve the deeper purpose of meditation.

Guided Meditation: An Approach

One of the techniques I use with people is “guided” meditation. A guided meditation is one in which a voice is used to guide the process. The voice can be yours or someone else’s. Some people feel more relaxed or clearer as a result of the guidance and support of another person’s voice.

A calming voice is more conducive to a meditative state than a harsh one. Simplicity is more useful than complex words or complicated ideas. A slow pace, rather than a fast cadence, tends to encourage greater depth. A regular practice is useful to go deeper.

Improving Your Guided Meditations

Here are suggestions for the most effective guided meditations or guided visualizations, whether you want to guide others verbally, or you want to benefit the most from being guided by someone else, or you want to guide yourself.

Align with the Divine. When we are in touch with our higher consciousness, words flow through us. Or they may not flow through us, in which case silence is a perfect condition.

Set intention. A guided meditation that begins with a stated intention will find the perfect rhythm, sound, and depth, regardless of the words spoken. The best intent statements are simple and broad, like “relax” or “align with the divine” or “become more aware.”

Be. New meditators often worry about “getting the words right.” However, a successful guided meditation is deeper than words. Coming out fully will do more to raise awareness than a well-edited script.

Breathe. Breathe and instruct others to breathe to improve grounding and relaxation. Some meditation teachers have rules about breathing. I keep it simple: inhale and exhale. And notice.

Be aware of energy. You can see energy or feel it or feel it or know what is happening energetically. If you feel confused, invite clarity to be present. If you feel resistance, pay attention to safety, quiet, comfort, or relaxation.

It honors both uniqueness and universality. If you guide others into a meditative state, remember that people are unique beings with their own set of beliefs that should not be undermined, but honored. The deeper we go into a meditative state, the more universal the experiences become, with room for each of us to have their own unique expression.

Let go of expectations of end results. Sometimes we get obsessed with how we think things “should be” and we miss living right now. A guided inner experience can provide the power to open up to new possibilities, if we submit to the experience.

Feel and express gratitude. It’s a joy to do inner work, which usually incites us to greater and greater gratitude. Gratitude is a powerful consciousness from which to live and express yourself outwardly.

Live in the Consciousness of Loving Kindness. Sometimes when we go about our daily lives, we forget the calm of a meditation. It is important to train ourselves to live this tranquility and joy.

Practice practice practice. It is important to practice until meditation is part of your lifestyle. If one approach feels good one day and another, then you are trusting your own inner guidance if you switch from one technique to another.