For a number of reasons, meditation tends to be overlooked as a potential tool for stress reduction. The many benefits of the practice can be obscured by its reputation as a "touchy-feely," spiritualistic practice, one favored by hippies contorted into uncomfortable positions while changing meaningless sounds. This image of meditating has, unfortunately, discouraged many people who could potentially benefit from utilizing some of the host of meditation techniques available from learning meditation and trying it out.
The authors hope that this book will support those who have been curious about meditation, but are unsure of how to get started. We also hope that the book will encourage those who have not seriously considered meditation as a means to greater peace of mind to explore its possibilities. Finally, we hope that the book will offer opportunities, through the practice of meditation, to help readers enhance their sense of calm, relaxation and well being.