Prompt: Discuss the ways in which meditation is used in your practice space (or not). How important is the meditative aspect of yoga and how (if it is important) is it presented? What is your impression of meditation?

Response: Meditation is typically used at the end of my practice. After the movement is over, we are asked to focus only on our breath. There is sometimes a guided meditation focusing on the chakras and the movement of energy gradually continuing up the body. In my practice, meditation is more of the winding down part of the practice in preparation for the end, and while it is sometimes emphasized, more importance is given to the physical practice. Meditation comes very hard to me because my mind is constantly racing. Guided meditations that give me something to continually focus on are easier, but sitting with my breath and not giving into distraction for any length of time is very hard. When I manage to do it correctly, however, it leaves me feeling very good and relaxed. I think meditation is a really important skill to master as it allows one to slow the mind and focus attention inwards for a while.