Understanding Meditation
by Gabriel Foster
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Meditation has been around for many thousands of years. It is a
technique geared towards inner discovery and enlightenment. Its' also used
for deep relaxation, freedom from thoughts and inner peace. There are many
forms and techniques of meditating, varying from silent motionless
techniques to very vigorous physical ones.
The Goals of Meditation
Many people meditate for different reasons, thus achieving different
goals. One of the most common reasons for meditation, is relaxation from
peoples busy and stressful lifestyles. Stress! The culprit for many
ailments and poor health is at an all time high in many a persons life.
The combative results of meditation often brings much needed relieve like
the rain falling upon a half thirsty tree to this problem. Other people
meditate for deep spiritual reasons, such as to achieve enlightenment.
Enlightenment in this case is to reach your true self, the self
uncluttered with what we call the ego. Then others again meditate to
develop better concentration and control of the mind (stilling their
thoughts).
The Benefits of Meditation
Meditation relaxes the body almost to a sleep like restfulness, yet
it's a hundred times better than sleep itself in terms of benefits. With
continued meditation over time, you'll notice your memory increases.
You'll be able to remember things with much better clarity and accuracy.
Your concentration strengthens to the point where little to no
distractions occur once your mind is engaged in a task. Slowly but surely,
like a veil being removed from your eyes, you'll see things much clearer
(be conscious of) and begin to live in the present with a renewed
happiness. Serenity and deep relaxation marries itself to you as a season
mediator. What this means is, over time, you'll be able to turn on the
serenity feelings at will to some degree. Especially during stressful
episodes in your life.
Enlightenment
There are many kinds of enlightenments, but for the subject of
meditation, we'll stick to the relevant one. For many people, meditation
is simply a means to relax and combat stress. In reality, meditation is
much more than a stress buster. Other than the many benefits it rewards
you with, it's ultimate gift is something that many spiritual teachers
call enlightenment. The goal of enlightenment in meditation is to go
beyond the ego. Ego! According to the dictionary is the self, the part of
the mind that reacts to reality and has a sense of individuality. This
description of the ego is exactly what enlightenment seeks to transcend
and unveil as the totally false self.
When a person is born, they eventually absorb various thoughts, ideas
and beliefs from family and other people they come into contact with. As
time goes on, they grow and these ideas, thoughts and beliefs become so
ingrained within their mind, that they see them as an inseparable part of
them self. Consider this! If you were to tell me who you were, you'd
probably tell me: What your gender is, say what race you belong too, what
kind of career/job you do, nationality, hobbies, your age, weight etc.
Anything that you identify with, may be brought out to help explain your
case of who you are. This is all well and good, but essentially, those
things don't reflect your true self of who you really are. Meditation with
the goal of enlightenment will transcend this usual state and place you in
a state of consciousness where such identification is pointless. The true
you is eternal and unchanging. All the former descriptions I just
mentioned to you, are not permanent and subject to change at any given
time. The enlightened state allows you witness your true self in an
altered state of consciousness beyond the thoughts and attachments you
grasp to help you identify who you are. In this altered state of
consciousness, you see the eternalness of yourself and your true nature.
You're on the outside looking in at the world as if it were a grand show
or movie. In your ordinary state of consciousness, you'd be taking part as
an actor or actress inside this movie (life). Playing whatever part your
thoughts and ego wish you to play, but as your true self, you will be in
the world (the movie) not of it. You are able to choose your interactions
sensibly and avoid unnecessary suffering, pain and regret. You become
aware of the limitations of your ordinary state as oppose to your
enlightened state, where you rise above the rushing of your thoughts and
emotions that change constantly. One minute you are happy, the next you
are sad. In your altered state of consciousness, you exist as almost a
pure state of consciousness that is untouched by the influences of random
thought and emotions. All false identifications of yourself is observed
and then tossed into nothingness until you need them again in your
ordinary state of consciousness, but with one difference. You'll be able
to always see them as false labels and not the real you. They will have
their uses in the ordinary world, but they will no longer control or
deceive you into believing this is who you are.
Unfinished Symphony
Meditation offers a sensible solution to health, personal and
professional problems. It also provides a solution for peaceful
enlightenment, if that's what you're after. There will come a time in your
life, when the chorus of life starts sagging and prompts you to pick up
your conductor's stick (meditation) and start correcting the insufferable
songs, into a beautiful symphony that breathes life back into your
soul.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Gabriel Foster is the editor for the online magazine for
both vegetarians and natural health enthusiasts.
Meditation Related Articles:
 Meditation-Advice For The Beginner
Why Should You Meditate?
Understanding Meditation
Basic Relaxation Techniques Create Better Health
Increasing Psychic Abilities With Meditation
Complete Guide to Meditation - With Meanings Explained
What Is Meditation And Which Benefits Does It Have?
The Relationship Between Meditation and Self-Analysis
Meditation: The Art Of Seeking The Silence
Meditation and You
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