Try to adopt a posture while meditating that encourages both alertness and relaxation.  This is a point that will be revisited throughout the 40 days. Much of meditation is finding a posture that facilitates these aspects of alertness and relaxation. Alertness is emphasized through sitting postures that are grounded and upright. The back should be as straight as possible (using its natural curvature) and the gaze should be slightly downward. Your eyes can be closed or slightly open. If slightly open, allow the gaze to be “open” and not focused on anything. From this place of alertness and uprightness, allow the body and muscles to relax and settle. Now, you are ready to meditate!