Meditation: The highest form of activity

“Meditation is the highest form of activity a man can perform” – Paramahansa Yogananda

Entering the realm of meditation can feel like stepping into a labyrinth of the mind, where the allure of tranquility is often overshadowed by the daunting task of stilling our thoughts. Many approach meditation with romanticized notions, only to be deterred by the energy it demands. Some harbor misconceptions, believing they must banish all thoughts, while others associate it solely with spiritual practice, causing them to recoil. Yet, meditation holds varied meanings for different individuals. For me, it's the journey inward, a quest to unravel the depths of my being.

During my Meditation Teacher training at Ananda Seattle, meditation was defined as “deep concentration on one of the aspects of God or Higher Self (Light, Sound, Peace, Calmness, Love, Joy, Wisdom, and Power).” This resonated deeply with me, highlighting the formidable willpower required to embark on this quest. It's said that it takes more than 66 days for a new behavior to become automatic – a testament to the endurance demanded by meditation. To initiate this voyage, begin with just 5 minutes a day, gradually extending your practice.

But why meditate? In the cacophony of everyday life, the mind often amplifies trivial matters into monumental obstacles. Yet, after a meditation session, the lens through which we perceive these challenges shifts. What once seemed insurmountable suddenly appears manageable, or at least, viewed through a lens of equanimity. Meditation teaches us detachment, cultivating the art of observation without entanglement. Moreover, it fosters a connection with divine vitality, clarity, and love, both for ourselves and others.

The benefits of meditation are manifold, ranging from stress reduction to improved sleep and decreased blood pressure. However, recent studies unveil deeper transformations within the brain itself. Following an eight-week mindfulness course, the amygdala – the brain's fear center – appears to shrink, while the prefrontal cortex, associated with awareness and decision-making, thickens. This neurological dance hints at the profound impact of meditation on our cognitive architecture.

Meditation's lineage spans millennia, revered by practitioners of diverse faiths as a pathway to deeper understanding and self-realization. From the ancient Vedas to modern mindfulness clinics, its legacy endures, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries. The proper posture for meditation ideally involves an erect spine, facilitating the upward flow of energy. Whether seated on a chair or cross-legged on the floor, the key lies in finding a comfortable and conducive environment.

Yet, misconceptions abound. Meditation is not mere relaxation or concentration but encompasses a spectrum of practices. From Focused Attention Meditation to Open Monitoring Meditation, each offers a unique pathway to inner stillness. At its core lies the state of pure being, where attention rests upon itself – quiet, empty, and steady.

So, if you find yourself wrestling with the challenges of meditation, remember: every moment of presence is a victory. Embrace the journey, regardless of its twists and turns. As Paramahansa Yogananda aptly said, “Retire to the center of your being, which is calmness.”

Sources: 

Ananda. "Calmness: The Doorway to Cosmic Consciousness." Ananda Blog, www.ananda.org/blog/calmness-doorway-cosmic-consciousness/. Accessed 4 April 2023.

Ananda. "God in Meditation: Finding Peace through Yoga." Ananda Blog, www.ananda.org/blog/god-meditation-peace-yoga/. Accessed 4 April 2023.

Harvard Gazette. "Eight Weeks to a Better Brain." Harvard Gazette, 21 Jan. 2011, news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2011/01/eight-weeks-to-a-better-brain/. Accessed 4 April 2023.