Photo by Flickr user Dave Hamster

In this month where romance is at its commercial peak, I thought it would be interesting to use the Valentine analogy for our relationship with meditation. Similar to the way couples refresh their feelings, you may want to go back to the beginning. What was soothing, exciting, comforting, sparkling about your early journey into meditation? Perhaps you’d enjoy writing a love note to your younger self, expressing your gratitude.

Are you new to meditating? Make a date! I believe meditation is the most intimate relationship you can have with yourself. Review the fundamentals in last year’s blog (Three Fundamentals of a meditation practice) to get started. If you’re someone who avoids meditation because it seems too lonely, invite someone to meditate with you or go to a group meditation.

Or, if you’ve been meditating for years, how can you get more out of your practice? In addition to the ideas in the blog "Deeper meditation," you may want to consider a new ritual or a love letter to your future self. Another idea is to sit with the intention to have fun. Meditate with a smile on your face, and see what happens!

Susan Scott Morales is a meditation teacher, psychotherapist, published poet, novelist, and community contributor to AnnArbor.com. Contact her at susanmmorales@yahoo.com or visit her website: susanscottmorales.com.