meditation question

[Elaine]

I had my first SUCCESSFUL meditation tonight...but 2 things confused me....one...I was talking to myself...going through things I have read about meditation and telling myself what to do and when I started getting deeper into it (I was seeing myself in a forest...at first anyways) I was telling myself where to look and to pay attention to detail and stuff....I didn't do that the whole meditation...but I was just wondering if anyone else does that...or did do that...and how did you stop it??

number 2 I'm really confused cuz I saw myself walk into this tree...and inside it was hollowed out and made into a little house and inside on the couch was this old man...I have no idea who it was or if there was some significance for him being there....any ideas??? thanks...Elaine:)

[idusty88]

Sounds as if you were doing a guided meditation for yourself; setting up a scenario in which to explore. Once the setting was established, allowing yourself to explore freely (no preset directions) would have been appropriate. In other words, when you reached the part with the hollow tree and the man, it was fine to just allow the sensory inputs to present themselves (unless the sensory inputs were disturbing or threatening, then by all means, take control and direct things back onto a path of your choosing).
If guided meditation is what you are interested in pursuing currently (as opposed to empty mind meditation), then here is one plan of action:
Devote one session to each element, earth, air, fire, water and spirit. Employ all imagery associated with the element to create a setting and immerse yourself in the sensations presented. I have found it very beneficial to use a tape recorder to record a dialogue for entering and leaving the trance state. This will allow you to focus more fully and establish a time limit (15 minutes has been good for me). If you like, when you are finished make a few notes in a journal.
Next you could use as subject matter your natal horoscope. Devote one session each to your sun, ascendent and moon signs. Another good set of promptors are the seasons of the year or the holidays. Also, tarot cards are good jumping off points. I especially love using the Voyager deck for this purpose.
http://www.voyagertarot.com/

[Elaine]

that is a WONDERFUL idea!! I never thought of that...if I had only thought of that months ago!!! :) I will try that soon....those tarot cards look very interesting....I think their cool:) thanks for the help:D Elaine:)

[Dellit Tandannon]

if you see him again, you should try talking to him, he might be of some help. he might even be your guide. good luck. :)

[Elaine]

I didn't think of that either.....I'll remember that!!! thanks for the tip:)