Meditation Using a Visual Design Focusing on a yantra, a Sasnkrit word meaning “visual design,” can have a powerful emotional effect. In this form of meditation, you can use virtually any symbol or design with personal meaning. Anytime you link with an object or symbol, you not only see what is there, but you add to it the way you see it. Therefore, the actual form of an object can be, and often is perceived differently by different people. Focusing on a design triggers something unique for every person. When looking at the same object, we all see different things. We describe feelings and thoughts and memories that come into our minds. A Hindu will look at a symbol in a way a Jew or Muslim may not. The story is different for each of us. But whatever we see tells us more about ourselves than the image. This is the goal of meditation. As you focus, you will recognize the symbol in front of you, and become aware that your thoughts come from within yourself. As you reflect on your thoughts, the symbol is the vehicle for discovering something beyond its form. Here are the steps: Choose the object. You may use an abstract or realistic symbol, a pictogram, a photograph, or an illustration. Anything goes, but the symbol must be pleasing and interesting to you. Wait for the right moment. Begin by sitting comfortably in front of the symbol, picture, or image. One way to prepare your mind is to do some simple movement and breathing exercises for five or ten minutes. Or you may simply close your eyes, observe your breathe, and wait for a moment. When you feel ready, open your eyes and focus on the image. Record the experience and keep it in your memory. With your eyes open or closed, reflect on the following questions:   When I look at this picture, what do I see?   What does this illustrate or depict for me?   What does it trigger?   What is behind this image?   What is my relationship with this image?   What do I feel? Is it pleasant or unpleasant?   What is the impression this object sends back If you have a problem in pursuing any of these questions, either the question is not the right one or you need to spend some time preparing yourself to ask. When you are ready, open yourself to the message, feeling, or picture that comes to you. Your inquiry will help you discover the wisdom hidden in the mystery of the symbol. End by sitting or lying down quietly for a minute or two.