Just as there is need for the utensils and dishes to be washed clean, the body given a regular bath and good food, so also we need to devote time to cleanse the mirror of our mind to reflect the reality beyond the superficial mirages and attachments. This is upasana. Sitting close to your true Self. Your Divine within. Your Sakshi. This will gradually redesign your subconscious programs and free you from habitual patterns and consequent miseries. 
Just sit. Just watch. Just Be.