I’ve been really doing a lot of meditation lately. Regardless of what you believe, meditation can have some serious health benefits. I’ve heard similar reports, and while I have to do more research on my end, it makes sense, simply from the perspective of someone who has done meditation and experienced the calm and mental well-being that can ensue. While there are many types of meditation, the type I have been practicing is probably the most basic. It’s simple.
How I do it entails the following:
Find a comfortable spot, turn off the lights, and light a candle. From there, I sit cross-legged with my back straight. I rest hands in my lap, one palm in the other with the thumbs lightly touching. Close your eyes, and take a deep breath inward. While doing this, focus on your breath. You want even, controlled breaths, but do what’s comfortable. I often focus on how the air feels – cool coming into my nose and warm going out. Now comes the hardest part… your brain starts to wander. Try to let the thoughts float away. I imagine them tied to a balloon that lets them drift away.
The thing is, those thoughts aren’t important. The moment is. The meditation.
I have to ignore the stress I feel about bills, work, trying to go to school, being a good dad and husband. All that HAS to go out the window.
You’re taking this time out for yourself.
If you do it right, you’ll get this amazing thing… stillness. It’s the only way I can describe it. You breathe in and out. You feel comfortable, at peace. And if you truly did it correctly, when you get finished, you’ll feel relaxed and energized.
Some people may call me a quack for talking about this. Well, you’re too wrapped up in your own asshole to understand what I’m trying to tell you here. This act is not spiritual. It can be if you want it to be though. In simplest terms, meditation is shutting out the outside world and celebrating the majesty and wonder of your body. Of this moment, of being alive.
I’ve struggled to find that stillness. I meditate 3 to four times a week in twenty minute sessions and have been doing it for about two to three months now. In all that time, I’ve attained the stillness I mention here only two or three different times. But once you’ve felt it, you’ll want to keep trying to find it. Even if you don’t I guarantee you’ll feel better. I believe the power to find peace and calm lies within. The question is, can you disconnect yourself from all the crap around you?
-ty
