[tannerc]

It took me five years of regular meditation to really grasp the power of knowing not only what, but how, you think in certain situations.

It's easy to run on autopilot, but doing so often leads to temporary emotions fueled by passing events taking charge of your actions.

Five minutes a day can make a huge difference. It's not easy, but it's always worth it.

[doriandargan]

Agreed. Meditation really helps with self control. so important.

[geekam]

I have never understood what does the exercise involve? Can you please tell me what is it that you "do" in those five minutes that you meditate? I want to try this. Thanks.

[gnaffle]

There are many ways to do meditation (and many goals) but generally in silent meditation you pay attention to what your mind is doing, how you are feeling emotionally and physically, etc. To have a "reference point" you can pay attention to your breath.

http://www.audiodharma.org/series/1/talk/1762/ is a good, free introduction (this is from a Buddhist center, but the podcast applies to mindfulness in general).

[tannerc]

Jean Smith has a really great, concise book that outlines what to "do" if you're just starting out with meditation. It's called "The Beginner's Guide to Zen Buddhism" and is absolutely great for beginners.

It's not the end-all-be-all book for meditation (or Buddhism) but it is a good starting place I think.

http://www.amazon.com/Beginners-Guide-Zen-Buddhism/dp/060980...