Take a Breath: Directed Meditation

[I wrote this paper as part of my rabbinical studies and have included it here to help explain the techniques and benefits of meditation—a popular but often misunderstood practice.]

OK, everyone, please get in a comfortable position; back straight, head slightly tilted downward, hands open on your laps, feet lightly touching the ground. Now, breathe in deeply through your nose. Feel the air enter your body, filling your lungs. Hold the breath for a few seconds, and slowly exhale through your mouth. Breathe in again, and concentrate on your breath as you gently close your eyes....

Does this dialogue sound familiar? Most of us recognize it as the instructions for meditation. You may have personally experienced ...

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