meditation
What is meditation?
Meditation (‘dhyana’ in sanskrit) is a state of mind in which the observer and object become one. The observer is you, the object is the focus you have chosen as your meditation practice. The focus can be a number of things: your breathing, repeating sacred words (japa), visualizing a mandala or picture of your guru, walking and even eating.
Once you have chosen a focus, make a daily date with yourself; a time when you are least likely to be disturbed by phones, noises in your house or housemates. Early morning, before anyone rises, is best, although your daily schedule might only permit later in the day or late evening. Sit comfortably, with your spine straight, as in pranayama and bring your awareness to your chosen focus. It is a wonderful idea to dedicate your meditation with a prayer or statement of intent.
Many people avoid meditation, because their minds are too restless or they can’t sit still. This is like saying ‘I can’t run a marathon’, and not start training by running one or two kilometres every day to build up your fitness. Start with five minutes for the first couple of weeks, and when you feel comfortable sit for ten or fifteen minutes always bringing your awareness back to your focus.
The first thing you will notice when you attempt to meditate, is just how busy your mind really is. It is constantly jumping around planning ahead, reminiscing about the past, judging yourself and others, and even analysing your meditation practice. Be patience with yourself and when you become aware of your mind’s activity bring your awareness back to your focus, the object of your meditation, realizing that each time you bring your awareness back you’ve won a skirmish in the battle against your mind.
Benefits of meditation:
- mental clarity
- inner harmony
- self knowledge
- creativity
- insight
- siddhis
- bliss
- union with the Divine
