One of the major benefits of meditation is the inner peace it cultivates. In Hebrew, the words “Shalom” (peace) and “Shalem” (whole) share the same root. It is impossible to achieve a state of wholeness/completeness in your life without inner peace.

Here is a meditation practice I have been experimenting with recently to increase my feelings of tranquility and peace.

Sitting comfortably in a chair, I inhale deeply. Then I expel the air slowly on a two-count while simultaneously saying “Shalom” (שלום) in a soft tone.

On the first part of the exhale I say “Shaaaaaaa” (ש) and then “Loooooooooom” (לום) to draw out my focus on the word. Then I start the process over by breathing deeply again.

I suggest trying this for 5-10 minutes each day for a week. Embedding the ancient Hebrew word for “peace” deeply in your consciousness can’t help but affect your actions, relationships and thoughts.

In fact, to add a layer to this meditation, you can visualize a problematic relationship or situation (such as work) while you do the meditation. Let your soft chant slowly heal the pain caused by the conflict you feel.

Shalom!

Simcha