All over the world, systems of health for the whole person developed based on meditation practices. With society moving ever faster, the modern impulse is to take meditation on its own, outside of the context of a tradition. This episode explores the value of the context and gives a few practical suggestions as to how to benefit our overall health as well as deepen and sustain our daily practice. It also draws parallels between modern science, psychology, and traditional worldviews.

Traditionally, the way to learn to meditate is through a teacher. Since many of us don't have or even want a teacher, this episode shows how to develop a personal practice using the teacher-student relationship as a model, but without requiring a teacher. What internal feeling to cultivate, how to do that, what to do with the body, and techniques used in the great world traditions to help are all covered. First, the teacher-student relationship is explored, followed by an explanation of the internal feeling of meditation. Then, breathing, chanting, and mindful techniques are described so one can choose a practice that works individually. A 20-minute meditation timer with 5 minute bells is included so practice can start right away.