Whether you are new to meditation or well experienced with yoga or tai chi, anyone can learn basic chakra meditation. Each has its own rewards and benefits. Unlike yoga or tai chi, anyone can practice chakra meditation since there is not the same physical aspect to it. Also, chakra meditation can be practiced almost anywhere. All you need is a quiet place where you will be undisturbed and about 15-20 minutes. Wearing comfortable, loose fitting clothing is recommended but not required.
Before beginning, it is important to ground yourself in order to get the full effect from the chakra meditation. Some people do this by walking through a lawn barefoot, reconnecting with nature. This can also be done by sitting cross-legged on the floor or sitting with your legs folded under you and concentrating on your breathing.
To help clear your mind in preparation for chakra meditation, first choose a focal point. If you are more comfortable with your eyes open, focus on a point on the floor 5-10 feet in front of you, but instead of looking directly at it, look through it. If closing your eyes is more comfortable, mentally focus on the spot between your anus and genitals. This spot is the location of the root chakra, the foundation of the chakra system. Allow your mind to clear. If you notice your mind starting to wander, gently guide it back to your focal point.
Breathe in and out slowly, making each breath deliberate. As you do this, you should feel your body and mind start to relax and center. Once completely relaxed, you will be ready to begin the chakra meditation. As a rule of thumb, it is not recommended to skip this step when practicing chakra meditation because a quiet mind and body is more open to the benefits and healing it provides.
If you only have a short amount of time in which to practice chakra meditation, it is recommended to set an alarm rather than trying to keep an eye on the time yourself. This will allow you to fully concentrate on the meditation without distractions. 20-30 minutes a day is the recommended time for meditation.
Proper grounding and centering before chakra meditation is so important it deserves its own article. A follow-up article will go into detail on various techniques and chants often used in general chakra meditation as well as how to open the different chakras.