Did you know? Oprah is a big believer in the power of mediation and often broadcasts information on the results she and others have achieved through daily meditation.
Meditation is a mental discipline by which one attempts to get beyond the conditioned, “thinking” mind into a deeper state of relaxation or awareness. Meditation often involves turning attention to a single point of reference. It is recognized as a component of almost all religions, and has been practiced for over 5,000 years. It is also practiced outside religious traditions. Different meditative disciplines encompass a wide range of spiritual and/or psychophysical practices which may emphasize different goals — from achievement of a higher state of consciousness, to greater focus, creativity or self-awareness, or simply a more relaxed and peaceful frame of mind.
The word meditation originally comes from the Indo-European root med-, meaning “to measure.” From the root med- are also derived the English words mete, medicine, modest, and moderate. It entered English as meditation through the Latin meditatio, which originally indicated every type of physical or intellectual exercise, then later evolved into the more specific meaning “contemplation.”
Eastern meditation techniques have been adapted and are increasingly practiced in Western culture.
Meditation has been defined as: “self regulation of attention, in the service of self-inquiry, in the here and now.” The various techniques of meditation can be classified according to their focus. Some focus on the field or background perception and experience, referred to by some as “mindfulness”; others focus on a preselected specific object, and are called “concentrative” meditation. There are also techniques that shift between the field and the object.
In mindfulness meditation, the meditator sits comfortably and silently, centering attention by focusing awareness on an object or process such as the breath; a sound like a mantra, koan or riddle-like question; a visualization; or an exercise. The meditator is usually encouraged to maintain an open focus. Shifting freely from one perception to the next clears your mind of all that bothers you by removing thoughts that can distract you from reality or your personal being. No thought, image or sensation is considered an intrusion. The meditator, with a ‘no effort’ attitude, is asked to remain in the here and now. Using the focus as an ‘anchor’… brings the subject constantly back to the present, avoiding cognitive analysis or fantasy regarding the contents of awareness, and increasing tolerance and relaxation of secondary thought processes.
Concentration meditation is used in many religions and spiritual practices. Whereas in mindfulness meditation there is an open focus, in concentration meditation the meditator holds attention on a particular object (e.g., a repetitive prayer) while minimizing distractions; thus bringing the mind back to concentrate on the chosen object.
Meditation can be practiced while walking or doing simple repetitive tasks. Walking meditation helps to break down habitual automatic mental categories, “thus regaining the primary nature of perceptions and events, focusing attention on the process while disregarding its purpose or final outcome.” In a form of meditation using visualization, such as Chinese Qi Gong, the practitioner concentrates on flows of energy (Qi) in the body, starting in the abdomen and then circulating through the body, until dispersed. Some meditative traditions, such as yoga or tantra, are common to several religions or occur outside religious contexts. (Wikipedia)
Repetition:
1) Using your own words, define meditation. What does it mean to you? What does the above information teach you?
2) Name two different types of meditation. What is different between the two types?
3) What are the recommended steps to meditate?
4) What are the benefits received from meditating?
Application:
1) Visit the websites listed below and find a meditation program for you to begin using. There are many different methods and tools to provide you with great benefits that come from daily meditation.
Transcendental Meditation Organization – The authoritative website on a form of meditation that is recognized by millions. Featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, PBS, and many more news outlets. The successes from this form of meditation are world renown.
Centerpointe Research Institute – For those who find it difficult to meditate, Centerpointe has a solution that is now sold in 172 countries. Simply listen to meditative sounds in loaded into your iPod or MP3 player, then experience meditative effects, such as calmness of mind, and inner peace. The free demo, will give you a great experience.
The Synchronicity Foundation - Another high-tech option to mediation providing information, tools, and other resources for achieving great meditation.
HeartMath / emWave – This tool helps to intensify the benefits of meditation by reducing mental and emotional stress.
2) Use your chosen meditation method each day.
“For every disciplined effort there is a multiple reward” – Unknown
