This probably sounds contradictory but when we meditate on a memory we are focusing on its impact in the present moment. Try it with something non-anxiety provoking that happened recently. What happens? When you remember a joke, you laugh in the present. If you recall a near accident in hitting a chipmunk crossing the road, doesn’t your face scrunch up?

In today’s meditation you’ll choose a pleasant memory that will help you achieve your intention for today. For example, if you want to feel peaceful, you’ll remember a moment you felt peaceful.

Susan Scott Morales | Contributor

I usually meditate on whatever technique I’m suggesting and today was no exception. The results were so satisfying! The memory I recalled was being in a silent retreat in India. I felt an instantaneous flood of sensations - my posture became more easeful, my face softened and my mind became still. Even more gratifying was the exalted state of happiness that accompanied the meditation. So, I encourage you to go for the highest!

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In your comfortable meditation setting and posture, close your eyes and begin to allow your body and head to sway gently. Take a deep breath and exhale slowly. Now bring your body back to being still, keeping the relaxation. Breath deeply and exhale long. Now lift your shoulders, take them back and then let them drop down. Repeat this a few times. Breath again deeply, taking your time to exhale. Now let your breathing return to normal.

Begin to recall the memory you’ve selected for the meditation today. Perhaps you are already in it. This is the point. Be in the memory as fully as possible. Use all your senses. Imagine what you look like in the memory. How does your body feel? What is your minding focusing on? Bring in whatever smells, textures and sounds that fill in the experience. Now get a panoramic view, taking everything into yourself as if it was happening for the first time. This is your experience. Right now. You are feeling whatever it is you want to feel. Now meditate on this feeling. Let it take over your body and your mind completely. If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to the feeling that you’ve chosen to focus on. Enjoy your meditation.

As a mental health professional, an owner of a fitness studio, a writer and a wife, mother and grandmother, I have found meditation to be helpful in every aspect of my life. To find out about my meditation classes this fall, contact me at susanmmorales@yahoo.com or check out my websites: susanscottmorales.com and bodiesinbalancefitness.com