Waiting can be very stressful. Take the following examples:

During these stressful periods of waiting, it can be helpful to do a meditation exercise to relieve stress rather than allowing it to get worse. Getting stressed out will not help any of the above situations, and is often harmful. Therefore, people are encouraged to try a meditation exercise such as the following:

1. Close the eyes and take a few deep breaths, in through the nose and out through the mouth.
   
   
2. While sitting, imagine being at the top of 10 stairs that lead down to a door. Imagine taking one step down toward the door. During this visualization, the body feels more heavy and relaxed, sinking gently into the chair. With each visualized step toward the door, the body continues to feel heavier and more relaxed.
   
   
3. Upon reaching the visualized door, open it and step out into the most beautiful, relaxing scene imaginable. Perhaps there is a waterfall, cool forest or the perfect vacation spot.
   
   
4. Spend a few moments soaking in the sights, sounds, textures, smells and even tastes associated with this place.
   
   
5. Before coming back from this place, take something to provide strength and a reminder of this relaxing break from the worries of the day.
   
   
6. Come back through the door and climb back up those steps, feeling more refreshed and stronger with every step.
   
   
7. Take a deep breath and open the eyes.