There are many ways and means to experience meditation. People have told me that they can meditate while
- jogging or swimming laps,
- gardening,
- painting a house, and
- doing the dishes,
- or even when in prayer or contemplation.
While that might be a successful experience for some, I’m more of a traditionalist. My well-used meditative pattern is focussed on breathing. So this is the beginner’s guide. Meditation 101.
- Find a comfortable quiet space, adjusting your body to be at ease. I choose to sit in a comfortable chair or lounge with my palms facing up, resting on my knees.
- Eyes closed … and then taking a few deeper breaths, following that breath … where does it go? Breathe in calmness, exhale tension. And repeat like a mantra. Breathe in calmness, exhale tension. And if you have to adjust your body do so.
- If and when thoughts enter your mind, acknowledge them and let them go. Don’t focus on them. Come back to the breath. The goal is to quieten the mind. You are learning to listen to the wisdom of your body. If there is tension or discomfort, acknowledge that and see if you can move through that discomfort.
- If negative thoughts enter your mind, meet them with love, compassion and forgiveness. Thank them and let them go. Then go back to focussing on the breath.
- Be aware of other senses. Notice the temperature of the air on your skin. What sounds are around you? Are you able to move them gently to the background in your mind so that they are there … but not there.
- The goal for me is to find a quiet space where hopefully you will find nothingness. True mindfulness for me is mind emptiness. Empty of thought. Empty of interference. Non attachment.
A recent Harvard study has found that increased meditation leads to improved learning and memory.
“The analysis of MRI images, which focused on areas where meditation-associated differences were seen in earlier studies, found increased grey-matter density in the hippocampus, known to be important for learning and memory, and in structures associated with self-awareness, compassion and introspection.”
I’d be interested to hear the different meditation techniques that others have used successfully. Please share so that others can experience meditation.
To start your journey of Mindful change, contact Brett now to re-imagineer your future.
Your body and spirit will be thankful. And probably your family and work colleagues as well.