Mediation for the Modern Life

Somewhere in Silicon Valley, a group of computer programmers sit silently
in a room together, legs crossed and eyes half-closed, listening to the
sound of their own breath.  Elsewhere, the owner of a small real estate
company starts her day by breathing deeply and engaging in yoga poses. 
Still, elsewhere, a data entry specialist finishes his turkey sandwich and
returns to his cubicle, puts on his headphones, and breathes deeply while
listening to the sounds of bells and waterfalls.

Meditation looks different for different people, but one thing is for sure:  it is
quickly gaining popularity in Western culture.  It has many professional and
personal benefits including increased productivity, reduction of stress and
depression, and reduction of troubling physical symptoms such as
headaches and muscle tension, to name a few.

The word “meditation” often elicits images of devout men sitting silently in
mystical temples far away.  It can seem foreign and certainly something too
far removed from daily life to have a practical application for business or
even for personal gain.  You may have preconceived notions about what
meditation entails or cultural or spiritual beliefs which you feel may hinder
you from participating in meditation.  While meditation does have its roots
in several spiritual practices, it is increasingly being recommended by
Western medical professionals as research is bringing to light the multiple
health benefits of regularly engaging in this form of focused relaxation.  

The Power of Meditation 

Regardless if you choose to meditate for spiritual reasons or for physical
and mental health, meditation generally consists of the following elements:

 A relaxing environment:  whether it is in the woods, by the lake, in a
studio, or in your living room, mediation usually occurs in an
environment that is physically comfortable and free from noisy
distractions.  Some people choose to sit on a cushion and focus on
their breathing in complete silence while others may choose to lay on
their beds and listen to relaxing music. 

 Posture or movement:  during mediation, the participant will generally 
sit in a specific posture, such as with the legs crossed, spine straight,
and hands resting on the knees.  Sometimes participants will lay
down or engage in specific movements, such as with yoga or t’ai chi. 

 Focus:  while meditating, the participant will focus on a number of 
things from their simple breath, the feeling of energy moving through
the body, an object, a value or ideal, or a word or phrase called a
mantra. 

 An open mind:  during meditation, the participant allows their mind to 
let thoughts flow through their mind without judging them.  Often
times, the meditator will observe the thoughts instead of suppress
them and then gently bring their focus back to the intended subject.