I haven't had much luck with the breathing exercises. Maybe I was doing it wrong. You would think after breathing 2300 times a day I would have mastered it by now.
I did come across a post the other day on buddhist meditation. I haven't tried it myself but it sounds very zen. I guess if I fail to achieve enlightenment through self loathing then I might give it a try.
The first step to meditation is correct breathing. We will start with the Buddhist breathing technique. Buddhist breathing- Place your tongue on the roof of the mouth. Breathe slowly and deeply through the nose expanding the stomach when you inhale. Hold this position for about four or five seconds. Next slowly exhale the breath over a span of four seconds while returning your stomach back to normal. Beginning Meditation- Now that you know how to Breath correctly it is important to find a place where you can be alone. It is important that you are not interrupted during these learning stages of Meditation. This is because the untrained mind is easily distracted. Although this is now a factor it will not be a problem shortly after you have successfully finished these guides. Next set comfortably on the floor. So, that you are not bothered by irritations like a hard floor you may set on a pillow or cushion. The matter of how you set does not matter; lotus, crossed, etc., but you should always keep your shoulders loose and your back strait. This is so your weight is on your hips as oppose to carrying it on your shoulders. Now that you are comfortable, you may close your Eyes and Begin. While using the Buddhist breathing technique concentrate on positive aspects in your life. I suggest meditating for at least 7 minutes. To some people that may seem like a long time to spend but it is worth it. You should do this at least four times a week for proper results. After this period of meditation you can expect to feel more relaxed, healthier, and awake.