Without giving the plot away to Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code," here is a meditation on the fragrant and cherished rose.

Roses have long been a favorite of many. They combine a delightful perfume, good looks, velvety texture and ease of horticulture. Once planted, a rose bush will bloom year after year, and even dried, the scent permeates the environment.

To begin

Place a rose blossom on your meditation table. Sit on a cushion facing your table, hands folded in your lap or resting on your legs.

Gaze at the rose; inhale its fragrance. Notice its arrangement of petals, unfolding in a spiral toward its center.

Close your eyes and begin breathing evenly - counts 1, 2, breathe in; counts 3, 4, breathe out; counts 1, 2, breathe in; counts 3, 4, breathe out and continue this pattern.

After a minute stop counting, but continue breathing evenly. Regular breathing calms both body and mind allowing us to be more receptive to esoteric thoughts and ideas, and giving a break from cares of the world.

Take a few minutes to reflect on the symbolism of the rose - how it gives unremittingly, just as the divine gives all of us life force continuously; how a mother gives to her young ones continuously and unconditionally.

Let thoughts of unconditional love come to mind and rest in those uplifted thoughts.

Finish your meditation with a deep breath; stand, stretch, uplifted with the closing thought: "Can there be any love greater than that which created the rose."

For another 'Da Vinci Code' inspired meditation click here.

Kundalini Meditation
Mandala or Yantra Meditation
Tratak or Meditation on Light
Kirtan - Chanting Meditation
Mantra and OM Meditation
Tantric Meditation
Yoga Meditation
Da Vinci Code Inspired Rose Meditation
Da Vinci Code Inspired Yin Yang Meditation

Article Susan Helene Kramer
Photo credit Stan Schaap

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For offline reading

Meditation for Teens and Adults
More than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.

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Meditation for all Kids
Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.