MsL and Loretta,
Hi Ladies! Hope you are both well today.
I have been meditating for years. Back in the day I went transdental meditation classes. I also taught meditation to the youth at The Church of Religious Science.Then meditation was also part of the Nisreen so sho buddhistism that I practiced....years ago. I meditate each day, before I get out of bed and before I sleep at night.
The easiest way I have found it to just close your eyes and get in a comfortable position. Look at your "third eye", which is between your eyes and just slightly up. Then concetrate on your breathing. Pay attention to the inhale and exhale. At first make deep breathes so you can hear the inhale and exhale. If the internal dialogue comes, and it will, just refocus on the breathing. You will get better with practice.
If you have difficulties unwinding before you meditate, go through the tensing of each part of your body and relaxing. Starting with your toes moving upwards. When you get to your heart area or chest area take a minute to be grateful for things or people in your life and move on up your body. This should set the mood for a relaxing meditative period.
Also, as I meditate I begin with a simple mantra, " Be Still and Know". At other times I say the words "love, peace, joy, perfect health, ...what ever my need or desire maybe and then focus my attention on each inhale and exhale (sometimes making the breathes loud enough so I won't be distracted).
Remember the internal dialogue will come, don't resist, just let it pass through and refocus on the breathing.
Peaceful Meditating....Hugs Di
PS Also have a nice quiet place for your meditations.