With all the benefits of meditation being touted across the internet, it would be good to have a clear definition of what is meditation.
Let us start by an all-encompassing definition of meditation given by Dr. Shauna Shapiro, PhD: “Meditation refers to a family of techniques which have in common a conscious attempt to focus attention in a non-analytical way, and then attempt not to dwell on ruminating thoughts. “
From this definition, we can see two important aspects – focussing attention and non- analysis or non-judgement.
Meditation Helps You to Focus
This may seem simple but it is actually more difficult than it seems. You see, since we were young, our brains have been constantly looking for where we should put our attention. To keep children calm it is well known to keep them distracted as well. Then when we are old enough to watch TV, the more the screen is changing and exciting, the more our brains are being trained to be distracted. And then come the portable phones, screens and laptops. Again, everything attempting to grab our attention.
While this has been many of our stories, you may wonder why is it so bad for us? This sequence of distraction places our nervous system into a constant state of flight or fight (sympathetic nervous system). We rarely calm it down getting into rest and digest (parasympathetic nervous system). Being in the state of fight or flight for long periods of time can create a whole host of health problems:
- Sleep disorders
- Anxiety
- Memory Loss
- Digestive issues
- Depression, etc.
just to name a few.
Meditation can place us into the rest and digest and will vastly improve (as well as prevent) the above health conditions.
Meditation Techniques
As for the meditation techniques, there are many. And science today says that it does not matter which technique you choose. You can even switch different techniques to keep it interesting. The important point is to be able to slip into that meditative “state”. Once you feel it, you know it. You will get good at slipping into the state whenever and wherever you want.
One of the most important points is to get the meditation benefits one must practice, and practice regularly. A good way to do this is to follow along in a class, a video or recorded mp4 at least once per week, then practicing the technique for the rest of the week whenever it is most convenient for you.
If you are interested in joining our meditation course, we meet online every Tuesday at 7am. We use 6 different meditation techniques each week and take new students throughout the year.
Visit our Meditation Discovery Course page to learn more now!
Namaste
AUTHOR: ANNE
Hi! I am Anne. I am a fitness and wellness coach with over 25 years of experience in the Swiss Romande area. I am a Yoga Alliance Certified Teacher for 500 hours and for Training Teachers in Continuing Education. I am passionate about helping individuals reach their highest potential and dedicated to attaining and maintaining fulfilment and happiness in every aspect of life.