Blog

What is meditation? Wikipedia defines it as follows: “Meditation is a practice where an individual operates or trains the mind or induces a mode of consciousness either to realize some benefit or for the mind to simply acknowledge its content without becoming identified with that content, or as an end in itself.”

Meditation has been around since pa fell off the bus - in other words, a very long time. Since ancient times it has formed part of many religious practices and still does so today.

Many people see meditation as an effective form of training the mind to become calm and focussed. Why meditate? What can you expect to get out of it? Here are some of the benefits of meditation:

• Enhances relaxation and reduces stress
• Lowers blood pressure and improves blood circulation
• Reduces feelings of anxiety
• Lowers heart rate
• Slows down your respiratory rate
• Increases feelings of well-being

I believe all of these benefits to be products of meditation practices. Personally, I meditate for two reasons:

• My mind is very busy and has the potential to run all over the place. Meditation is a way to quieten my mind a bit and to experience a sense of relaxation and serenity.

• I speak to my higher power when I pray. I mostly ask for guidance. Meditation is my way of listening. It serves no purpose if I ask in prayer, but never listen to hear the answers. The only way that I can listen effectively, is by taking the mental noise away.

How should we meditate? It is recommended that we:

• Sit or lie comfortably.

• Close your eyes.

• Breathe naturally.

• Focus your attention on your breath and the movement of your body when breathing in and out.

• When your mind wanders, simply relax and return your focus to your breath.

I meditate in the mornings before work and do the following:

• I have downloaded some guided meditations on my cell phone.

• I plug in my earphones and start the recording.

• I lie on my bed, on my back, with my arms relaxed at my sides.

• I close my eyes.

• I focus on my breathing.

• I listen attentively and follow the instructions.

• When my mind wanders, I gently return to listening and focus on my breathing.

There are many different types of meditation, some of the most prominent ones are:

• Transcendental: You try to experience inner calmness and try to rise above the negativity. Guidance is probably needed to get the best results.

• Heart Rhythm (HRM): The aim is to experience the mantra: “I am a part of all things and all things are a part of me.” Concentration is placed on the heart, with a focus is on breathing.

• Kundalini: It focusses on the rising stream of energy as you concentrate on your breath flowing through your energy centres.

• Guided Visualisation: You imagine relaxing, positive experiences, prompting the body to respond with feelings of positivity. In this modern form of meditation, you may focus on a specific goal.

• Qi Gong: One of the oldest meditation practices, it uses breath to circulate energy through the body. It improves respiration, relaxation and posture.

• Zazen: A form of seated meditation, done with a straight but relaxed back. It relies on self-guidance and encourages surrendering judgement.

• Mindfulness: Probably the most popular and accessible form. Sit with your back straight, eyes closed, and legs crossed. Focus on your breathing. When your mind wanders, gently re-focus. Accept thoughts without judgement.

I strongly recommend that you log on to YouTube and look at some videos on meditation. There is a huge variety. You can start with ones for beginners and work your way through all the different types, until you find one that works for you. It is good to investigate, try some options and make an informed decision.

A lot of community centres offer meditation classes. Look in your local newspaper for workshops and classes and join in.

I always say that I struggle with meditation. That is probably true, because my mind still wanders a lot. But, from what I hear from others and read, a lot of people experience this. It seems important to accept that as part of the process and to continue doing it as part of a daily routine. It is a process. Do not strive for perfection. Although I say I struggle, I know meditation has changed my life - and I improve each time I practice.

Be kind to yourself and be patient.

Come on. Sit or lie down comfortably, close your eyes, focus on your breathing and repeat after me:

Uhummmmmmm…………….