What Is It Like To Properly Meditate?

Unveiling the Art of True Meditation

In the bustling rhythm of today’s world, where the cacophony of sounds, relentless demands, and digital distractions never seem to pause, finding a serene oasis in the form of meditation becomes not just a luxury, but a necessity. But what does it truly mean to meditate properly? It’s akin to asking a fish about water; the answer lies in the immersion.

The Journey Within: More Than Just Sitting Still

Meditation, at its core, is often misconceived as a mere act of sitting silently with closed eyes, an attempt to force the mind into submission. Ah, if only it were that simple! True meditation is a vibrant journey inward, a skillful dance with the mind, where you are both the lead and the follower.

Easing into the Experience

• Finding Your Spot: It all begins by finding that sweet spot, physically and figuratively. A quiet corner, a comfy cushion, and most importantly, a no-interruption zone. It’s setting the stage for a tête-à-tête with your inner self.
• Posture and Prep: You don’t have to twist yourself into a pretzel; comfort is key. Sit, stand, or even walk—the position doesn’t matter as long as your spine maintains a friendly handshake with straightness. Take a few deep breaths, let the shoulders drop away from the ears, and invite calmness into your space.

The Main Event: Navigating the Mind’s Highways

Once you’ve laid the groundwork, the real adventure begins. Here’s where the clichés crumble, and the authentic experience of meditation unfolds. It’s not about evacuating thoughts from the mind’s premises but instead observing them, with the curiosity of a child and the patience of a saint.

• Breath as Your Beacon: The breath becomes your north star, guiding you through the murky waters of mind chatter. Each inhalation and exhalation is a step forward on this journey.
• A Friendly Notice to Wandering Thoughts: Ah, the wanderlust of the mind! It’s bound to happen. Without getting your knickers in a twist, gently usher your focus back to the breath. It’s about kindness, not crackdowns.
• Embracing the Ebb and Flow: Some days the sea is calm, and others, the waves crash mightily. Meditation unveils its depth in these fluctuations. Embrace each session for what it is, sans judgment.

The Afterglow: Reaping the Riches

The true magic of properly meditating often unveils itself post-practice. The clarity with which you see the world, the tranquil yet powerful river of calm that flows beneath the hustle-bustle of daily life, and the profound connection to the present moment—it’s akin to donning a pair of HD glasses for the soul.

• Mindful Morsels: Suddenly, you find yourself savoring the little moments—the warmth of the sun, the taste of your food, the melody of birds. Life, in its entirety, becomes a series of mindful morsels to cherish.
• Stress? What’s That? Well, it doesn’t magically disappear, but its edges soften. You become a skilled surfer riding the waves of stress, rather than being pummeled by them.
• A Symphony of Serenity: Imagine hearing the world’s cacophony not as noise but as a symphony. Meditation tunes your inner strings to resonate with serenity, regardless of the outer chaos.

To meditate properly is to dance with life’s rhythms, to turn inwards with courage and curiosity, and to emerge with a soul that sings in harmony with the universe. It’s a journey of a thousand miles that begins with a single breath. So, why not take that breath today?