Struggles, Challenges, Annoyances, Frustrations
How are you going out there? There is a lot to keep us occupied with isn’t there? I have been staying with someone who is really into politics lately, so I have been hearing what is going on in this realm on a daily basis – and listening to the news regularly. And there is just so much doom and gloom!
But you know the way I see it, along with many others (thank goodness) is that to every single negative there is a positive. There are so many good things happening out there – that unfortunately, don’t get much mainstream exposure – but then, the good news isn’t as exciting, as intriguing, or as interesting as bad news. The majority of us really seem to revel in power, greed, blood and gory don’t we … or so we are led to believe …
But there is an upside to this – the more we are pushed into being fearful from things that are occurring externally to us, the more attractive the option of exploring ourselves internally becomes. And by this I don’t mean going into our burrow or hibernating or feeling sorry for ourselves, I mean truly looking inside ourselves as an exploratory exercise. There are just so many benefits of doing this, some of which get exposure through the media, such as reducing and eliminating stress and as an approach to improving our mental and physical health. But did you ever think of spending time with yourself as an activity to amuse yourself, or as a way of changing your perception on life itself? Do you know what going inside yourself means? Are you scared of looking because of what you might find?
Whether yes or no, what have you really got to lose? All that is required is for you to get yourself to a space and a place where you have no distractions and if possible, no noise.
What it doesn’t mean is that you have to find a cushion and sit on it cross-legged.
Meditation is so wonderful, and increasingly is being scientifically proven to be beneficial to the human body and mind in so many ways, but I think we have to be careful not to elevate it to a level where it may appear unattainable. Meditation can be many things and may be achieved in many ways. This morning I went for a long walk through country paddocks, along a stream and climbed over rocks and boulders. At various stages of this sojurn, I felt I was in a meditative space.
Here are some definitions which help put the meaning of meditation in perspective:
Meditation is a practice of concentrated focus upon a sound, object, visualisation, the breath, movement, or attention itself in order to increase awareness of the present moment, reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance personal and spiritual growth.
– The Free Dictionary
Meditation is a practice in which an individual trains the mind or induces a mode of consciousness, either to realise some benefit or as an end in itself.
– Wikipedia
Focus one’s mind for a period of time, in silence or with the aid of chanting, for religious or spiritual purposes or as a method of relaxation
– Oxford Dictionary
I just think we all need all the help we can get these days, and meditation truly is such a great tool. And if you feel you have the sort of mind that can’t be slowed down, or can’t be calmed down, don’t buy into that idea or let fear take you over. Just try it. I find a great time to practice is when you are waiting in a queue, or at the airport, in a waiting room for the hairdresser, doctor etc. Just close your eyes and zone out. It’s terrific. I always find it energises me. And the best thing about it is it has long term benefits as well. So each time you meditate it is like you are adding to your meditation bank.
I was sitting in a café the other day and overheard an older man at a neighbouring table say to his mate; “We’ve seen the best year’s Terry.” I’m sure many would agree, but whether you do or not, please make sure that you try your upmost to enjoy each second, minute, hour, day to the max, by looking after your mind, body and soul. There is absolutely no doubt, that in the short and long run, it helps us all.
