What is Meditation?

What is Meditation?

Meditation is a diverse and ancient practice with various definitions and techniques. Here, we'll explore the different perspectives on what meditation is and how it can benefit you.

Definitions of Meditation

Experts define meditation in several ways. For example,

1. Resting the Mind: Meditation is a precise technique for resting the mind and attaining a state of consciousness that is distinct from the normal waking state.

2. Spiritual Awareness: It is a mental exercise aimed at reaching a heightened level of spiritual awareness.

3. Mental Clarity: Meditation involves using a technique, such as focusing on a particular object, thought, or activity, to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state.

Definition for Relaxation Meditation—the style that Gary Halperin teaches

Relaxation Meditation is a mental exercise designed to offer various benefits in which you have choices of what you do with the mind.

Techniques and Benefits

Most meditation styles teach skills to break streams of thoughts, often chains of negative thoughts such as anxiety, anger, and low mood. These thoughts are referred to as "disturbances" of the mind. You are also encouraged to maintain a relaxed attitude towards the practice itself.

These techniques can help you experience a calm, clear mind. Regular daily practice increases the likelihood of achieving this calm state, although it's important not to meditate with the expectation of specific outcomes. Some experts believe that the benefits of meditation come from spending part of your practice in this calm state.

Categories of Meditation

Meditation techniques generally fall into two categories:

1. Concentrative or Focused Attention Meditation

2. Receptive or Open Monitoring Meditation

There is some debate about which category certain meditation styles belong to, but here’s a basic overview:

Concentrative Meditation

In concentrative meditation, you focus on a single point (like your breath) and return your attention to this point when your thoughts drift. This approach emphasizes that mind drifting is normal and should not be a cause for worry.

Receptive Meditation

In receptive meditation, you observe thoughts as they arise, label or categorize them (e.g., "that is fear," "that is anger," "that is neutral"), and then let them go.

Relaxation Meditation: A Blend of Techniques

Relaxation Meditation incorporates elements of both concentrative and receptive meditation, making it a unique practice.

By understanding these definitions and techniques, you can find the meditation style that best suits your needs and start experiencing its benefits. Regular practice can lead to a calmer, clearer mind and improved emotional well-being.