Meditation - What is it?

In its simplest form, meditation enables a person to create a relaxed state of awareness of mind and body.

We normally experience awareness and relaxation as two separate states, though usually not experienced simultaneously. Our concentration is more often than not directed towards what we are doing. For example, when driving a car, our thoughts are concentrated on the physical act of driving and what is happening on the road.

When we meditate, however, our awareness is focussed inwards to our thoughts and feelings. In traditional Eastern meditation the emphasis is on the need to empty the mind of its chatter so as to connect with a greater reality beyond. The mind is often likened to a tree full of chattering monkeys who swing from branch to branch as the fancy takes them.

However, a slightly different approach is to not begin by clearing the mind, but by filling it with a wealth of thoughts, images and feelings. By doing so, we may connect more fully with our innermost self and begin to develop an understanding of our true nature. In this way we will be meditating not on a higher spiritual realm but, quite simply, on ourselves.

Either method is fine – you have to discover what is right for you.

It is also an excellent method for changing our state of mind from a negative to a positive one - from anger to love and compassion; from emotional turmoil to peace and contentment.

If we wish to experience happiness, and we recognize that happiness is a state of mind, we can see that if it is necessary to change our mind. This is what our practice helps us to do.

The more familiar we are with positive, peaceful states of mind, the calmer we become. Eventually by training our mind to become peaceful, we will be happy all the time, even in the most difficult circumstances.

The opposite is also true - if our mind is not peaceful, then even when we experience wonderful external conditions, we will not be happy.

Why Meditate?

Regular practice can have similar effects to taking a holiday. You find that when you return you are refreshed, relaxed and have a new perspective on your life and problems. Indeed sometimes what appeared to be a terrible problem before now seems to have lessened in intensity afterwards. Unlike an expensive holiday, you’ll find that your practice costs nothing and can be fitted into your daily routine easily.

Just think of the stream of thoughts that endlessly flows through your head all the time you are awake. When you are alone, and your mind is not focused on any particular activity or task, these thoughts will tend to dart in all directions, more or less randomly. Remember the tree full of monkeys I mentioned earlier?

Many thoughts will be unconstructive and/or anxious; various emotional responses will vie with other, as if bottles of dye have been mixed into the river of your consciousness; probably they will keep you tense, awake or may even make you extremely stressed.

The practical and physical benefits are now well recognized by the medical profession. Correct breathing, good posture and deep relaxation encourage the body to function more efficiently and can help relieve problems such as insomnia, high blood pressure and low energy levels. You will probably start to feel more relaxed, and be able to concentrate better. Problems will be seen in a clearer perspective.

You will see what it is to be human, and therefore come to appreciate other people more. You will see the connectedness of all life.

There are so many positive results that come from regular practice :-

Mind And Body

We need to seek and achieve a balance of mind and body if we are to be healthy and to realise our full potential.

If our outer needs get all our attention and we ignore the needs of the person within, and particularly if we ignore the inner voice which tells us to slow down or take a break, then you can be sure that at some point we will suffer ill health. At the very least, our ability to withstand stress or pressure will be seriously weakened.

It can be an effective way to ensure that we are not neglecting an important aspect of our well-being, and we are keeping our lives in balance.

You don’t have to spend hours in strict contemplation to achieve this. Several minutes a day can be enough. Then gradually, we will begin to understand how mind, body relationship relate to each other.

It is not unknown that people who learn to meditate can even (eventually,) release a source of healing and rejuvenation from deep within themselves. It is not the amount of time we spend, but the quality and development of our understanding during that time.

So, let’s learn about some of the traditions, as well as what meditation really is and how it can be helpful to us. Let’s also learn the basics of correct breathing and posture that will enable us to set off confidently on our journey.

Traditions Of Meditation

Although we tend to immediately think of meditation as being essentially a Buddhist practice, it is in fact a central part in many of the world’s major religions.

Followers of Hinduism, Taoism, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam (and other religions) may all practise a meditation routine.

Time and Place

Because it is so helpful to establish a regular routine, try to put aside a particular time each day so that your practice becomes a part of your life. The time of day varies between individuals : some people find it refreshing to meditate at the start of the day; others prefer late in the evening, to calm the mind before going to bed.

Ideally, find a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. You could make this place special by putting objects as cushions, candles and incense there. Bear in mind when choosing your space that music can have a calming affect and access to media playing equipment might be useful. Being outside in the fresh air, can bring you a deep sense of connection with the world at large.

How To Sit

Meditation is traditionally practised in particular postures, but often these positions are uncomfortable and almost impossible to achieve for the Western body. The good news is that you don’t have to be young, flexible or supple to practice properly, and everybody can benefit.

The most important thing is to keep your back straight so that you breathe correctly. Assume a comfortable sitting or lying position. If lying down, you may need a support for your head; if on a chair, make sure your chair will support your back.

If you are sitting on the floor, try to sit cross-legged resting your buttocks on the front edge of a special meditation cushion (or firm pillow).

Many people in the West tend to sit on a chair.

I must stress how important it is that you are able to breathe freely, keeping a straight back which will help prevent the restriction of your diaphragm and lungs.

When you meditate, your body’s metabolism slows down and it is possible you may start to feel the cold, so ensure that your room is comfortably warm before you begin your practice. It is sensible to wear loose clothing and to remove jewellery.

Releasing Discomfort

It sometimes happens that you feel discomfort during your session. This may be muscle tension, if so – you could try contracting the area concerned, and then releasing it. At the same time try to imagine that all tension is flowing out of you.

Sometimes you may experience a tingling sensation in your body, and you should adopt a more comfortable position to allow your blood to circulate more freely.

Never ignore pain.

Should I Close My Eyes?

It is normal to meditate with your eyes closed. However, you should open your eyes at any time if you are uneasy with them closed. Try to remain completely relaxed so that you retain your state of awareness. When you are ready, simply close your eyes again.

It sometimes happens that closing your eyes simply “helps” you to fall asleep! When I have this problem, I just slightly open my eyes, whilst looking downwards and this helps to stay awake.

What To Do Now?

There are many different types of meditation available nowadays. If you search in your local neighbourhood or certainly on the Internet you will find Buddhist, Christian and other resources.

Since I started my own practice I have certainly become more calm and peaceful.

Circumstances which in the past would have overwhelmed me now only faze me a little. I sleep better and those around me say I am more relaxed and easy to be with.

Why don't you check to see what groups are available in your area?