Learn how to meditate, now ...

For best results in meditation, it is necessary to contact a meditation teacher. However there are some preliminary steps which you can do before you meet a teacher. 

1. You can practice the deep relaxation exercise which was explained previously. After finishing the deep relaxation, sit up in a cross legged position. Keep your back straight and your hands folded in your lap and your eyes closed. Sit quietly like this for five minutes. Don't try to "accomplish" anything. Just sit in an alert but relaxed position. Practice this twice a day for one week or more, and then go on to step 2. 

2. Practice meditation using a general mantra. As has been explained a little bit before, a personal mantra is used in meditation. There is however a universal mantra which can be used by anyone. The mantra consists of three Sanskrit words: Baba Nam Kevalam. Baba means "beloved" and it refers to your deepest Supreme Self. Nam means "name", and Kevalam means, "only". The meaning of the mantra is "Only the name of the Beloved". It is important to keep the idea of the mantra in your mind while you do the repetition of the Sanskrit words. 

3. The Baba Nam Kevalam Mantra can be sung before you do silent meditation. You can sing it to any tune you like. After singing for some time, you should get ready for silent meditation. Sit comfortably with your back straight. It is best to sit cross legged on the floor. Close your eyes and begin to repeat "Baba Nam Kevalam" in your mind. As you repeat the Sanskrit words, also keep in mind the meaning "Only the name of the Beloved" or “The infinite Consciousness is Everywhere” or some similar idea that brings up the same sentiment or feeling. If your mind wanders to other thoughts, just bring it back to the mantra, Baba Nam Kevalam. Sit for 15 minutes. (Use a clock or watch to keep time; if you open your eyes before 15 minutes, then just close them and continue meditating. After some time your "internal clock" will be able to tell you when it is time to stop meditating. 

4. Do the meditation two times a day. In the morning after waking up and washing, sit for meditation and after that begin your normal daily activities. In the evening, just before the evening meal, sit for meditation again. If you can get into the daily routine of doing meditation you are on the way to success. 

5. After Baba Nam Kevalam meditation is learnt or you desire more insight, then you can learn your own personal meditation technique from a teacher.