Full Text of Meditation Introduction

Meditation is practiced in a wide variety of ways, so it is not simply one method or modality. Some speak about mystical experiences and higher consciousness, while others are more comfortable talking about relaxation, calmness, and resilience. Heightened awareness, intuition, imagery, and general well-being are frequently used to describe experiences of a regular practice of meditation.

It's helpful to distinguish between the "form" of meditation and the "state" of meditation.

The most common "form" or technique of meditation is to sit quietly in a comfortable position for a specific period of time, usually 15-60 minutes, at regular intervals once or twice a day or several times a week.

The "state" of meditation is described in various ways, including such ideas as feeling euphoric, peaceful, strong, vibrant, connected to the Divine. It is a state of non-resistance.

During the meditation time, most meditators select a focus for their attention. Examples of a focus are the breath, a word or mantra, a guiding voice, gentle music, an image, a candle, a constant sound like a fan. It's important to select a focus that holds the attention without stirring up a lot of thoughts.

No matter how or where you meditate, it is the regular practice of meditation over time that yields full benefits. Meditating when stressed may be beneficial in the immediate situation, but the long-term benefits of a regular practice include general well-being, health, a strong immune system, longevity, clarity of thought, and balance.

Meditation is sometimes associated with certain religions. Meditation can be practiced in any and all religions, but the two are not synonymous. Wikipedia has a comprehensive listing of meditation methods

Jeanie Marshall Personal Development Consultant