One of the most valuable methods of obtaining and preserving contact with the inner realms, is through the regular practice of meditation, including grounding, centering and the "running of energy."
In whatever way we choose to practice these; long-lasting benefits, far out of proportion to the actual time spent in participation, are the result. Having myself, meditated for several decades in one religious form or another, I know from first-hand experience the tremendous value which can be obtained through these disciplines. The levels of enlightened advancement to be gained are many indeed, from the solving of everyday, mundane concerns, to the resolution of crisis or conflict, attunement with the Land and Spirits wherever we reside and the blessings of interaction with the Deities, the Sidhe and the Mighty Dead, themselves.
Throughout my life as a Druidic Pagan however, one form of meditation has given me more benifit than all others; that known as the "Two Powers" performed within ADF. It is a well thought-out, theologically and metaphysically excellent practice, which performed correctly and imaginatively, should help us tap into Earth-ly and Cosmic sources, without energetically lessening the amount or quality of either. As a personal aside, I feel it hugely important not to selfishly drain the resources of the spiritual realms, for our own supposed improvement or gain. I liken this to "astral strip-mining" or, theft, which has no place within an evolved, educated and sensitive approach to Nature spirituality. For example, by 'casting' our problems or illnesses into a visualized astral stream in order to remove their negative influence, we should consider the resulting pollution caused. Instead, as we release their substance, "alchemically" transform these detrimental energies into images of beauty and good-health. Because as humans, we are not helpless; we do have power within those dimensions and are quite able to effect them, as much as we are affected by them, in turn.
In my personal practice, my greatest issue of difficulty is in finding privacy; uninterrupted by telephones, active and noisy neighbors or nearby vehicles. By turning off the ringer temporarily and using ambient music as a buffer, most designated times of meditation can be successfully engaged in or, at the very least salvaged from complete un-doing.
Regularity of practice can also be a problem, though I am exceedingly fortunate to have off-work days during the week- the quietest time when living in a busy apartment complex. I've also found that maintaining my home shrine well; keeping the entire area free of clutter and with adequate space available, is a huge incentive towards frequent meditation. Because of my deep affinity to the growing wild, I find that having live, Green-World Allies nearby, aids my ability to focus on the central, axis-mundi, which every plant embodies.
But with persistence, I've found that all obstacles can be overcome, through ingenuity and effort. By re-training the "butterfly-mind", I'm increasingly able to narrow first, my intent (to meditate) then, with relaxed breathing, be present in the space and moment and then finally, to allow myself to turn within while visualized scenes and events are brought into play. As each element unfolds, I allow myself to give it time to build and become real to my inner senses. By feeling the roots as they connect to Earth and spread downward through the moist, crumbling soil and then to hear the trickling, pure water as it's brought up to fill each cauldron, in turn; the meditative effects are heightened. When the astral light is then, reflected onto the rippling waters, penetrating and glowing below the surface; these visions are beautiful to create and hold, making meditation a joy, rather than a chore.
Care is always given in the return journey, to reverse the procedure in its proper order and to close down the centers, not completely, but with enough energy retained to carry me through till the next session.
When meditation is completed, I record the date and experience, with any special insights gained in a journal which I keep nearby. This helps ensure that during times of heavy work loads, or rushed personal matters, meditation is still maintained on a regular basis without too much time allowed to pass between sessions- usually two, to three times per week.
I find this particular form of meditation, the "Two Powers", to be an essential and vital method of advancement toward the integration of my spiritual and mundane life; enhancing my home, business, social enjoyment and experiences.
