meditation method

[gil-galad]

I am using a specific meditative exercise, but I have not managed to achieve a deep meditative state yet.

Basicaly, I simply count my breath( counting after each exhalation), then after 40 I start it over again. I just passively observe my breath and count it, while I try to gently keep all other thoughts out of my mind. In theory, this symple exercise is appropiate for meditation, however, I have not mamaged to get into a deep meditative state yet. I have tried to find some information on the net concerning this exercise, but I could not find anything. 

Has anyone tried this technique? Is this a good way to meditate? I have been using this "counting meditation" for a long time, that is why I do not want to change to something else.

[curiousvoid]

No, try not to focus on ANYTHING. You are focusing on the breath too much, so your whole meditation goes out the window.

It depends on what your intention is. If your intention is relaxation and self centering, this is perfect. But if you want it to be a little more mystic, or achieve the meditative state better, read this: http://meditationguru.com/howtodomeditation.html

[Stookie]

Counting is probably not a good idea, as it's not a passive exercise. If you want to use your breath, use feelings. Feel the air passing through your nostrils (or mouth), down your windpipe, your lungs expanding, solar plexus rising, and then out again. Don't think about it or put it in words, just feel it, keep it natural, and let it slowly take your awareness into trance.