We consistently hear about the importance of meditation for our lives, business, and mental health. The mystics and shamans of the ages have all sang its praises throughout the entirety of human history. But in a more practical and modern way, nearly every successful CEO or entrepreneur points to mediation as one of the foundations of their achievements. If you read the biographies or listen to interviews with the most prosperous of us, nearly every one suggests a meditative practice. Steve Jobs, Tony Robbins, Sam Ovens, Ray Dalio, and Tim Ferriss are just a few of the luminaries that profess the benefits. But what actually is meditation? What kind of magical science is this? To some, it feels like a distant exotic art, practiced by monks sitting in a temple at the top of a snow-covered mountain. To others, it is a waste of time and energy accomplishing absolutely nothing. Well, meditation is much simpler than most people realize, yet much more powerful than they could ever imagine. The only way to get a true glimpse into the true wonder of meditation is to begin experiencing it for yourself. Meditation Basics The most basic, and perhaps most profound, form of meditation involves just you and your breath. You simply sit down, preferably in a cross-legged meditative form, with a straight back posture (sitting against a wall or chair can help with this). Once you are comfortable, you begin a deep, flowing breath. Inhale through the nose and exhale through the nose or mouth. As you breath, maintain your focus on the breath. This is your center of attention. At first, your mind will start wandering around from thought to thought. This is what is known as the “monkey mind.” As your thoughts go from what you want for dinner to what your co-worker said yesterday, don’t judge or get discouraged. Simply return your awareness to your breath as often and consistently as needed. You are training your mind to focus. This practice sounds easy, but most certainly is not. The mind does not appreciate your first attempts at controlling it. But like a well-trained animal, it will soon become your best friend and biggest ally if you just keep going and centering your focus.