How to Meditate

 HOW TO MEDITATE

Meditation at Saint Valentine's is steeped in the Catholic and Orthodox tradition of the Jesus-Prayer. Anyone may say the Jesus-Prayer, and anyone may meditate. A quick guide is presented below. 

*If you are new and would like a personal lesson, lease visit us for beginning instruction 15 minutes before each service.*

The Space 

 Find a quiet and comfortable location free of distraction. A home-altar space is ideal. One may sit on the floor kneeling, cross legged, or in a chair. Find a position which is stable and free of pain. Meditation shouldn't be too comfortable but shouldn't be too painful, either. 

 The Method 

Find your breath. Begin to breath naturally without force. Settle into the space. When you are ready, on your inhalation, mentally repeat the first half of the Jesus Prayer: "Lord Jesus Christ Son of God". On your exhalation, repeat the last half: "Have Mercy on Me a Sinner."   

Your breath should be natural. Match your prayer to your breathing - not the other way around. If your breath becomes softer or imperceptible, this is a sign of superior concentration. You may simply meditate on the phrase without saying it at this point, or you may repeat the phrase when your next breath arises. 

Strong Thoughts and Emotions

Thoughts are to be witnessed and let go of. Notice your mental activity without judgement and return to the breath and the Jesus Prayer. Strong emotions should be felt within the body. Locate the area where you feel the emotion the strongest. As it dissipates, return to the breath and to the Jesus Prayer.