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When non-yogis hear the word “yoga,” they usually think of slow, deep breathing, stretching and odd-looking postures that resemble pretzels. Even many semi-yogis often forget about the meditative aspects of this activity. When in a class, the instructor will usually end the session with a short meditation, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. I guarantee you that the instructor meditates much more often than just those 10 minutes at the close of class, and he/she expects the passionate students to do the same.

On the most basic level, the point of yoga is to attain relaxation and peace, while stretching and energizing the mind, body and soul. Every yoga instructor I’ve had emphasizes the idea of leaving mental baggage at the door. This is so we can practice with minds void of stress and daily “to-do” lists. The teachers want the students to get the most out of each session, and the only way that can happen is if each person is clear-minded and ready to truly relax and let go of life’s B.S.

While the end-of-class meditation is wonderful, it is not enough. Meditating at home is a vital key to your yoga training. I’m not suggesting you attain true enlightenment through Buddhist practices. I’m just saying that a half hour a night in a quiet room is extremely helpful. While many believe that meditation is a tricky art that can only be perfected after years of training, I think a bit differently. I’ve always thought it funny that something supposedly relaxing could be so time-consuming and laborious.

I’m no monk, and I don’t pretend to be a master of meditation, but I do know what relaxes me, and not even the famous Floating Monk can take that away from me. I like to sit in a dark, cool room with soft classical music. I light a few candles, find my squishiest and most comfortable over-sized pillow and pop a squat. I then spend the next half hour or so doing…well, nothing. If my mind wanders, I focus on my breath by counting backwards with each inhale. I sit in a the typical meditation posture and just allow my body and mind to empty itself of stress.

When a thought does enter my mind, I don’t automatically push it back. I first acknowledge its presence and then divert my attention to my breathing. Sometimes I close my eyes, while other times I find a spot in the room and concentrate on it. That’s the beauty of amateur meditation-it’s all about what works for you. I’m sure there are people out there who would criticize my “technique” and point out various aspects that deem it feutile, but all that matters is, after 30 minutes in that mental place, I feel revitalized and ready to take on the world.

It took me a long time to begin meditating. I was extremely intimidated and felt that it would be a waste of time. I was clueless and scared away by its reputation for difficulty. Finally, I just decided to jump on in. I figured, meditation is a fancy word for relaxation, so surely I can conquer this to some extent. Don’t get hung up on the formalities of it, and the rumors that only experienced practitioners can master this skill. This may be true, but only you can figure out what relaxes you. Find those techniques and go with it. Don’t worry if it’s traditional “meditation.” If it relaxes you, then it’s doing its job.