What is Meditation?

There are many different approaches to meditation, but the general aim is to focus your attention on something, maybe an object, a word, or your breathing. Through this act of focusing, your mind becomes still and you are able to become the observer of your negative thoughts, so that they no longer affect you. By focusing on the here and now you can let go of the demons of your past and the fears for the future. In the present moment you can find peace. With experience you can carry this peace, this practice of mindfulness into your every day life, so that you become an individual at peace with yourself.

However, meditation does require perseverance and patience, it takes time to master and it is important not to become frustrated with yourself during this process. You will not magically be able to detach from your negative thoughts and feelings the first time you meditate, it will take time to learn how to do this. You will probably have some days when you feel your meditation is going well and other days when you don’t seem to be able to meditate at all. This is normal and it is important to try not to be frustrated, but just accept that this is how you are today.

An important part of meditation is acceptance of what is, including how you are in the moment. This can be very beneficial for those who have a tendency to criticise themselves. From my personal experience I have found meditation to be very helpful at certain times in my life when my thoughts have been making a difficult situation worse. Being able to still my thoughts allowed me to reach a point of calm so that I could at least sleep, leaving me better able to deal with the situation the next day. Meditation does not remove your problems, but it can help you to gain some perspective and find some respite from your emotions, however temporary. In time your problems may no longer seem so overwhelming, they may no longer seem to be problems at all.

What is a Meditation session like?

Some people teach themselves meditation from books etc., others go to classes. Classes will vary depending on the approach of the teacher. At most classes you will sit on a chair in a relaxed, comfortable position and close your eyes while you meditate. At some classes you may lie down to relax. Some eastern forms may require you to sit on the floor, but this is less common in the UK.

What are the benefits of Meditation?

There is now increasing evidence of the benefits of meditation to your health. Meditation helps us to relax our bodies and mind resulting in reduced stress and a general feeling of well being. By reducing stress levels it helps the functioning of the immune system. Studies have shown that meditation can help to decrease the heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, pulse rate, plasma cortisol ( a major factor in stress), and to increase alpha waves, the brain wave associated with relaxation.

As well as helping to reduce stress, mediation can help with pain management, anxiety, depression, heart disease, PMS, IBS, sleeping problems and panic attacks. Whilst meditation is no substitute for proper medical care, it can help you to be fit and healthy

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