Fortunately for those too busy to attend courses, meditation can be practised at any quiet and convenient location such as your home. All you need is five minutes.

Here's what Mr Piya Tan, who has been a meditation teacher for more than 25 years, recommends for a daily dose of inner peace:
- Get rid of all distractions such as mobile phones.
- Get into a comfortable position. Mr Tan recommends sitting cross-legged or lying down on a firm, comfortable chair or surface.
- Close your eyes.
- Focus your mind on your breathing process. When your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breathing.
- Continue for 5-10 minutes.

It is okay to fall asleep, said Mr Tan, explaining that dozing off may help one recharge and it is vital to respect the body's needs.

However, he said that this method might not work for everyone. For some, meditation classes with experienced and qualified trainers are still more effective.

This story was first published in the Mind Your Body supplement on Feb 13, 2008.