Meditation is a widely discussed topic, yet it is often misunderstood. It is associated with yoga, Buddhist monks, the Far East, and long-haired gurus. For the most part, meditation is viewed positively — and if you’ve found this article, you’re already on the right track.
But what is this phenomenon called meditation? Wikipedia defines it as a practice in which an individual trains the mind or induces a mode of consciousness, either to realize some benefit or as an end in itself. Sometimes it is easiest to understand what meditation is not.
Meditation is not a religion. While meditation has been associated with Eastern traditions, its origins date back more than 5,000 years. Buddhism, with which meditation is often linked, is not itself a religion in the traditional sense — it has no supreme being and no practice of devotion. Meditation has none of these qualities either. There is nothing to believe and no deity to worship, though one may certainly be devoted to the practice itself.
Some Christians may feel that because meditation has roots in Eastern traditions it is non-Christian or even anti-Christian. In fact, the words “meditate” and “meditation” appear in the Bible about 20 times, referring to contemplation. Centering Prayer, also known as Contemplative Prayer, is a form of Christian meditation created by Father Thomas Keating.
Meditation is not a singular, specific practice. It is much like the word “sport,” which takes the form of football, tennis, golf, and so on. Meditation similarly takes various forms and methods. None of these is necessarily the “right” method — just “a” method. When you first begin, you may try various approaches until you find one that appeals to you. All meditation practice can be beneficial.
One caution: be wary of any meditation “master” who insists you will only achieve enlightenment by following their exact prescription. A genuine meditation teacher empowers you — they do not create dependency.
Meditation is not about stopping the mind from thinking. The purpose of the mind is to think, and it only stops when we pass away. The goal of meditation is to practice flowing with the thoughts of the mind while not responding, reacting, or engaging with them. This will not happen in your first session — hence the reason it is called a “practice.” Like learning a musical instrument, it takes repetition to learn how to play.
Regardless of how meditation is defined or which method you use, the benefits seem to be universal. Meditation helps reduce stress, improve health, and has an overall positive effect on well-being. It should be enjoyable, relaxing, and leave you with a sense of wholeness. If it doesn’t, you may be too rigid, your expectations too high, or the method may not match your personal needs. Keep practicing.
In Part 2, I discuss why I think everyone should meditate.
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