The Story of My Meditation

What is meditation? I heard, for some, it is a technique of resting the mind while being in consciousness state and for some; it is a practice of remembering beloved god in silence.  Well, different individuals, different experiences. But for me, meditation is an art, a silent brush that helps me to paint my inner self beautifully.

I specifically remember that my journey of meditation started in the year 2004 when I had to leave my favorite place, Los Angeles and shift back to India. Obviously, with my life and work set there, I did not want to shift here but then it was the call of duties. My parents wanted me to settle with them and learn the family business of gemstones and crystals. The thoughts of starting fresh, not knowing many people around and palling well with the “culture and customs” of India were hovering over my mind.  The perplexity and agitation related to all this were growing only when a friend of mine suggested meditation.

Perfect Position of Meditation For Best Output

Practicing meditation initially was a difficult task! I mean, sitting on the floor with spine straight, eyes closed, hands folded in the lap, and breathing cautiously for even five minutes seemed impossible. But now it has become an essential tonic of my life.

Meditation is the experience of the center of consciousness within. It definitely does not mean fantasizing or daydreaming. While meditating, the person is fully awake and alert. The mind is clear, relaxed and focused inwardly rather than being influenced by outside events. The goal of meditation is to go beyond the mind and experience the essentials of life-happiness, peace, and bliss.

Type of Meditation I Prefer

Talking about the types of meditation, there are mainly seven of them;

• Heart Rhythm Meditation
• Transcendental Meditation
• Qi Gong
• Guided Visualization
• Kundalini
• Zazen
• Mindfulness

I practice the mindfulness technique. Mindfulness is an ancient Buddhist technique which mainly helps you understand your natural wisdom.

Here, you have to simply find an uncluttered and noise free place in your house. Sit straight with eyes closed, legs crossed and slowly bring awareness through your body. Allow your muscles to relax except the ones which support the head, neck, and back. Let the tensions go away of your body and once the body is relaxed, bring awareness to your breath. Notice which part of the lung is being exercised as you breathe and if you don’t feel anything then notice your chest because if you are breathing from chest than you will not be able to relax. Let the breathing come primarily through the movement of the diaphragm and continue observing your breath.

Certainly, the mind will wander, the last night party, the electricity bill to be paid or the obscure character of the book you read, all will come one by one but then you have to simply attend those thoughts and not react. You have to focus on breathing and slowly open your eyes after 15 minutes. Now at this point in time, the feeling will be distinct.  You’ll find yourself someone different; a person who is calmer, relaxed and in peace with inner self. There is an experience of joy and containment with no mental turmoils anymore.

Perfect Timing For Meditation

I have been meditating for the last 14 years, in the morning for 20 minutes and in the night for 10 minutes before going to bed. I can’t say that I have done it all and attained all its benefits but ya practicing all this while has made me a healthy person (both physically and mentally). I have a better focus and concentration level, better energy, increased awareness, the higher functioning of the brain, clarity in thoughts, lower anxiety and irritation levels, better sleep cycle, increased immunity and most importantly, the vibe of positivity all around.

Meditation has proved therapeutic to me. It not only brought balance and stability in me but it also helped me overgrowing my immaturities, complexes thought the process and unproductive habits. In between all the frenzies outside, I am accustomed to it now. The day I don’t do it, I feel a little less stable and more susceptible to be swayed by my surroundings. I knew meditation has been a resort to millions of people around the world but it would change my life to this length was not known to me at that point in time.