Meditation FAQS

1. What is meditation?

Meditation is regarded as a discipline or practice, wherein the mind turns its attention on an object of thought or awareness. Meditators usually sit down in a fixed position and concentrate on a single point of reference to an illustration, breath, mantra, or sound eventually bringing about a higher state of consciousness for the practitioners. Meditation is considered a part of religions in the east and is being applied for over 5,000 years. It includes an extensive scope of spiritual, mental and physical routines that yields in quieting the mind and higher level of mental attentiveness.

2. Is meditation a religion?

Meditation as mentioned earlier may be a part of a religion especially in the east but it does not necessarily mean that it is a religion nor one has to have a religion to meditate. It is merely about consciousness. It is about being oneself while sitting silently and calming the entire body and mind to attain inner peace. People of different religions, philosophies, culture or age may do so as long as they keep an open mind.

3. Is meditation boring?

Some people practice this naturally especially to those in the east as many have been exposed to it since birth. But for everyone else it may seem boring, difficult or strange. The real testing of the pudding is in the tasting, so one has to try it first. Avoid having any prejudice and get first hand experience!

4. Why meditate?

People who practice meditation overcome numerous physical illnesses, emotional baggages, and psychological problems. They are basically happier individuals because they are able to resolve a lot of issues that seem impossible to solve as they delve deep into their meditation. They also live longer, become more efficient, energetic and gain a more positive mindset in their personal relationships and careers.

5. How do I meditate?

Meditation is preferably done before a meal rather than after to avoid lethargy.

Sit on a training mat or a chair. Lying on your back is not recommended as it might bring the person to sleep.

Do it in a lotus position. A half-lotus position requires one foot bent over the thigh of the other leg while a full-lotus requires both feet bent over their opposites.

Keep your back straight so as to promote better circulation of the kundalini, or spiritual energy.

Most practices encourage closed eyes while meditating but sometimes it contributes to drowsiness. However, opening them might be distracting. Try first and see which works best for you.

6. What is the best time of day to practice?

There is actually no best time for meditation but practitioners find early morning as the most excellent time. The explanation for this is because there is still no noise generated by the busy-ness in the cities. One can still tune in with the vital peace and energy available and undergo calmness throughout their entire day. On the contrary, people who do it at night find it beneficial as it eliminates the stress and chaos build up during the whole day.

7. How long should one meditate?

Some 10 – 15 minutes of meditation daily is ideal for beginners. However, as one becomes more acquainted with the practice, he can easily do so for longer periods of time. Advanced practitioners do not just practice it once a day. Sometimes they do it for four to five times or whenever they can.

8. Do I need a meditation teacher?

Having a teacher or someone who has experience can be highly valuable in assisting you in your learning. He can provide tips in enhancing your technique and may also provide you with the right answers to most of your questions. A meditation class may also be a source of motivation, support or simply a helping hand to a practitioner. There are more benefits while meditating with a group of people because there is a positive collective energy present.