If you meditate or think of doing so
Some of these things you may like to know
The blacksmith’s bellows inhale & exhale, on and on
They're not yogis, they collapse when the smith's gone
So meditate if you want, but know what you're doing
It's not just sitting cross-legged, breath toing & froing
Watch your conduct, if it’s not benign
Even hours of meditation won't be fine
Reign in your thoughts, give your mind a rest
Meditate with a calm mind and feel blest
Your body, too, at ease you should keep
But not so comfortable that you fall asleep
Train your senses so that sounds pass by
It's not so easy, but you must try
Let your breath be natural, not un-steady
After all this, you'll almost be ready
Now find a focus for your thought
For some its external, for others not
Some other words of advice, I'd like to offer
To enhance the bliss in your coffer
If you find a wise guide, that’d be great
Don't try esoteric things, don't tempt fate
Try to be compassionate, gentle, and kind
Sthirasukham Asanam*, is also a state of the mind
All this will make your meditation work for you
And open the door for adventures new
Kishore Asthana
*Sthirasukham Asanam: From Patanjali’s Yogasutras. Usually interpreted to mean a still and comfortable physical posture, it is also applicable to stilling the turmoil in the mind.