Meditation is one of the most important and potent tools in yoga. Where we place our attention has a profound influence on how we experience life and on the choices we make. In answering the question, “what is meditation and why do it” we will explore the philosophical foundation of classical yoga meditation practices, as given in the Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Samkhya Samhita and some of the Upanishads. We will see how these texts present the techniques and benefits of introspection, and we will learn to apply these tools to our modern lifestyle. We will look at the requirements and structure of a meditation practice by including short illustrations. No prior knowledge of Indian philosophy or Sanskrit is necessary. Our practices will be from a chair-seating position.