Derived from the Latin word “meditatio” and the verb “meditari”, meditation means “to think, contemplate, conceive, reflect”. Meditation is the seventh member of yoga in Patanjali’s yoga sutras. Called “dhyana” in Sanskrit, meditation refers to a mental and spiritual state of pureness.
How meditation works ?
Focusing on here and now is the main idea and purpose of meditation especially when it comes to mindfulness meditation. This may seem like a challenge, but with regular practice, meditation will soon show its benefits, such as reducing tension and stress, relaxing and slowing the heart rate. Meditation also helps to have a better perspective of life and to develop a more Zen mind.
Some meditation techniques
Transcendental Meditation
Transcendental meditation involves focusing on a single point. It may involve following the breath, repeating a single word or mantra, looking at the flame of a candle, listening to a repetitive sound or counting pearls on a mala. As it is difficult to keep the mind focused, a beginner can meditate for only a few minutes. In this form of meditation, you simply hold your awareness on the object of attention chosen. Rather than following random thoughts, you simply let them go. This process improves your ability to concentrate.
Mindfulness meditation
Mindfulness meditation encourages the student to observe wandering thoughts as they flow in the mind. The intention is not to become involved in thoughts or to judge them, but simply to become aware of every thought when it comes.
Through mindfulness meditation, you can see how your thoughts and feelings tend to evolve in particular patterns. Over time, you can become more aware of the human tendency to quickly judge an experience as good or bad, pleasant or unpleasant. With practice one can feel the inner balance of body and soul.
Other techniques
There are various other meditation techniques. For example, a daily meditation practice among Buddhist monks focuses directly on the cultivation of compassion. It involves looking at negative events and reformulating them in a positive light by transforming them through compassion. There are also moving meditation techniques such as tai chi, qigong, and walking meditation.
Why meditation is good?
The first step in meditation is to stop distractions and make the mind clearer and more lucid. We can do this by just meditating on breathing. Natural breathing, preferably by the nose, without trying to control it while being aware of the feeling of air coming in and out through the nostrils. This sensation is especially the object of meditation for excellence.
In addition to the different Yogic breathing techniques, this class is also an opportunity to discover Om meditation: a meditation that involves the singing of “Om” or “Aum” by combining breath and sound. When sung properly, the Om sound vibrates in your body, filling it with energy and tranquility. The yogis of ancient India knew the inherent power of the Om mantra and sang it to connect with their soul.
More infos about meditation
The strong points :
Relaxation and Unwind
Self-awareness
Learn to let go
Remove stress and anxiety
