Meditation - What it is and What it Takes
Meditation can be defined as any activity in which you take control of your mind's thoughts, either to focus thoughts on only that which you choose to think of (contemplation), or to still your thoughts so that there is as little thinking as possible, leaving only true relaxation.
When you read this, you might think, "but that's simply concentration, or relaxation--I do that all the time.
" In truth, you probably do not--you usually unconsciously have a passing thought, situation, or problem in mind and you think about all that somewhat unconsciously, or subconsciously without being aware of it.
Often this type of thinking relates to past or future events, sometimes with accompanying emotions being present like worry or guilt.
True meditation ideally requires either absolute stillness of mind without thoughts, or if thinking is involved, requires focus only on the present, with a dispassionate perspective and perfect calm.
Successful meditation requires dedication and discipline.
With practice, one can develop a quieter, more focused mind.
Many people have become happier, more balanced and calm by being committed enough to this process.
To get the real long-term benefits, one must take the time to meditate on a daily basis, even if only for 5 minutes at a time, although 20-30 minutes per day are really better.
Meditation is a discipline or technique that has existed since ancient times, in one form or another.
Some of the well-known types are of Indian origin (from India, not the North American type of Indian), although even the North American Indians have always had similar practices, such as going on "vision quests," or sitting in "sweat lodges" for contemplation.
You may have heard the term meditation in the same sentence as "Zen," or in relation to Buddhism or Hinduism, but many other cultures have used it as well--the Quakers used this type of discipline in their worship.
In some forms, I believe that prayer is talking to God, and meditation is listening to God.
Though I think this is true, it is also not necessary to have any particular beliefs to use meditation to your benefit, only a strong desire to strive for inner calm and peace.
Success in meditation is not related to religion, and it does not preclude other spiritual beliefs or practices.
It does require persistence and patience with oneself, and the desire to improve one's life experience.
When you read this, you might think, "but that's simply concentration, or relaxation--I do that all the time.
" In truth, you probably do not--you usually unconsciously have a passing thought, situation, or problem in mind and you think about all that somewhat unconsciously, or subconsciously without being aware of it.
Often this type of thinking relates to past or future events, sometimes with accompanying emotions being present like worry or guilt.
True meditation ideally requires either absolute stillness of mind without thoughts, or if thinking is involved, requires focus only on the present, with a dispassionate perspective and perfect calm.
Successful meditation requires dedication and discipline.
With practice, one can develop a quieter, more focused mind.
Many people have become happier, more balanced and calm by being committed enough to this process.
To get the real long-term benefits, one must take the time to meditate on a daily basis, even if only for 5 minutes at a time, although 20-30 minutes per day are really better.
Meditation is a discipline or technique that has existed since ancient times, in one form or another.
Some of the well-known types are of Indian origin (from India, not the North American type of Indian), although even the North American Indians have always had similar practices, such as going on "vision quests," or sitting in "sweat lodges" for contemplation.
You may have heard the term meditation in the same sentence as "Zen," or in relation to Buddhism or Hinduism, but many other cultures have used it as well--the Quakers used this type of discipline in their worship.
In some forms, I believe that prayer is talking to God, and meditation is listening to God.
Though I think this is true, it is also not necessary to have any particular beliefs to use meditation to your benefit, only a strong desire to strive for inner calm and peace.
Success in meditation is not related to religion, and it does not preclude other spiritual beliefs or practices.
It does require persistence and patience with oneself, and the desire to improve one's life experience.
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