Meditation: One must try it to get an understanding

Webster’s dictionary defines meditation as a contemplation or reflection. In other words, it’s the action of looking thoughtfully at something for a long time. It can also be described as a mental exercise with the goal of reaching a higher level of spiritual awareness.

To get a comprehensive understanding of it, in real life, one must try it, at least once. Practices like “Pranayama “, in yoga precede meditation to prepare your mind and body for what’s ahead: A journey into … ________.

Perhaps its one of those things that shouldn’t be described in objective terms to the point that someone conclude what it is after one glance at it. It’s true, that one can grasp the idea of swimming after reading about it and watching it. But, how can one grasp something subjective? Like how an individual feel when they meditate?

In many ways, in its original form, yoga was created to prepare a practitioner’s body and mind for meditation. Next time you are in Savashana, come to a comfortable seated position. Close your eyes. Focus on your breathing. Imagine the breath coming in and out of your nose … Let all other thoughts disappear one by one.

Meditation can help you deal with stress, anxiety, sleep deprivation and cogitation. Most of the time we create stress for ourselves when we don’t take time to evaluate our bodies and minds. Going with the flow can be good in some instances. But, if you constantly feel stressed because you are always going with the flow, perhaps its time that you take a minute to evaluate your life.

Meditation isn’t an escape mechanism. It’s a way to get in touch with the present if you are always searching for something that you don’t currently have. It’s a way to diverge your attention from negative thoughts if you suffer from depression. Meditation can bring focus into your life if you find yourself restless all the time.

A healthy body needs proper care-taking.  It’s easy to loose awareness of our bodies when we get overwhelmed with time-consuming activities. Meditation is perhaps most helpful when you are overwhelmed. It’s a practice that you can do without any prop or requirement. All you need to do is bring awareness to your breath!