For Pam
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Mindful Meditation
A great way to relax here at RIC
When I first heard that an article was desired on the Mindful Meditation group that meets every Thursday at 12 p.m. in the Counseling Center, my first thought was I have no time. Then I thought about it and realized I was curious and figured that I might as well write an article if I was going.
I have had some experience with relaxation and such things before and figured there would be no harm in at least trying. Previous experience is not required at all; I am just one of those people who find different techniques helpful to relieve stress. After all I am a college student.
I walked into the Counseling Center, in Craig-Lee Hall, a little before noon and took a seat in the waiting area. A few more students trickled in, and I hoped there would be more so I would not be put on the spot more than I would if it was a larger group. Walking into the meeting room where the group takes place, I realized that everyone who was there actually wanted to be there. It was not like a required class at all where half the people take it because they have to. (More)
When I first heard that an article was desired on the Mindful Meditation group that meets every Thursday at 12 p.m. in the Counseling Center, my first thought was I have no time. Then I thought about it and realized I was curious and figured that I might as well write an article if I was going.
I have had some experience with relaxation and such things before and figured there would be no harm in at least trying. Previous experience is not required at all; I am just one of those people who find different techniques helpful to relieve stress. After all I am a college student.
I walked into the Counseling Center, in Craig-Lee Hall, a little before noon and took a seat in the waiting area. A few more students trickled in, and I hoped there would be more so I would not be put on the spot more than I would if it was a larger group. Walking into the meeting room where the group takes place, I realized that everyone who was there actually wanted to be there. It was not like a required class at all where half the people take it because they have to. (More)
Source: The Anchor
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Meditation is Easy When You Don't Make it Hard
You could already be meditating several times a day but not realizing it because you think meditation is sitting in an uncomfortable position with your legs crossed and your fingers in a thumb to forefinger clench. Think again.
According to Herbert Benson, MD, author of The Relaxation Response, any repetitive action can be a source of meditation. You can be painting, scrapping, knitting, or in a more active way, you can be walking, swimming, or walking the dog. For a completely mundane activity, you can even be blow-drying your hair!
We all have experienced “spacing out” while driving routes we take on a regular basis. We’re driving - paying attention on one level - but on another level our mind is taking a break. This form of “meditation” is not recommended, of course; merely think of it as a way you naturally take a needed break from your brain’s constant chatter. (More)
According to Herbert Benson, MD, author of The Relaxation Response, any repetitive action can be a source of meditation. You can be painting, scrapping, knitting, or in a more active way, you can be walking, swimming, or walking the dog. For a completely mundane activity, you can even be blow-drying your hair!
We all have experienced “spacing out” while driving routes we take on a regular basis. We’re driving - paying attention on one level - but on another level our mind is taking a break. This form of “meditation” is not recommended, of course; merely think of it as a way you naturally take a needed break from your brain’s constant chatter. (More)
Source: The Examiner
Monday, September 28, 2009
Daily Inspiration
Kick back relax and enjoy 5 minutes of nature Cattails Blowing in the Wind Relaxation Meditation
Meditation Nation: Chicagoans Meditate to Combat Stress
What pops into your mind when you hear the word "meditation?"
Sitting cross-legged on a pillow?
Blanking out your thoughts completely?
Local devotees of the practice say they've heard it all when it comes to popular notions of the meditative arts.
"A lot of people think the whole purpose is to clear your mind of any thoughts at all," said Craston Artis of Washington Park.
The 32-year-old, who has practiced meditation for about six years, recently began teaching his own style of meditation at Soothe Your Senses spa in Edgewater.
"Clearing your mind totally is almost ridiculous," Artis said with a laugh. "In fact, trying not to think anything at all could drive you crazy. Your mind doesn't turn off." (More)
Sitting cross-legged on a pillow?
Blanking out your thoughts completely?
Local devotees of the practice say they've heard it all when it comes to popular notions of the meditative arts.
"A lot of people think the whole purpose is to clear your mind of any thoughts at all," said Craston Artis of Washington Park.
The 32-year-old, who has practiced meditation for about six years, recently began teaching his own style of meditation at Soothe Your Senses spa in Edgewater.
"Clearing your mind totally is almost ridiculous," Artis said with a laugh. "In fact, trying not to think anything at all could drive you crazy. Your mind doesn't turn off." (More)
Source: Chicago Now
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Happiness, Inc: Deepak Chopra's Path to Inner Peace
Deepak Chopra, the thoroughly modern guru, walks through Manhattan tweeting, delivering inspirational messages in 140 characters or less. "The purpose of life is the expansion of happiness," he tweets to the more than 106,000 people who follow his updates.
Between his tweets, Chopra blogs, has a satellite radio show, and writes books on everything from spirituality, to health, to cooking and even golf. Aside from that, he sells CDs, DVDs and has a pair of holistic centers complete with his own line of dietary supplements.
In the span of one week, Chopra shuttles between meetings with publishers, philanthropists, video game programmers and a promotional taping for his new book, and those are just some of the projects he's working on.
Chopra is also in talks to produce a television and Broadway show, and is developing an iPhone application to deliver inspirational messages to subscribers. (More)
Between his tweets, Chopra blogs, has a satellite radio show, and writes books on everything from spirituality, to health, to cooking and even golf. Aside from that, he sells CDs, DVDs and has a pair of holistic centers complete with his own line of dietary supplements.
In the span of one week, Chopra shuttles between meetings with publishers, philanthropists, video game programmers and a promotional taping for his new book, and those are just some of the projects he's working on.
Chopra is also in talks to produce a television and Broadway show, and is developing an iPhone application to deliver inspirational messages to subscribers. (More)
Source: ABC News
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Health: Mental Exercise Like Meditation Can Literally Change Our Minds
Richard Davidson, one of the world’s top brain scientists, believes mental exercise, specifically meditation, can literally change our minds.
“Our data shows mental practice can induce long-lasting changes in the brain,” said Davidson, professor of psychology and psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
His startling scientific research on the impact of meditation on brain function has implications that go beyond the physical.
Buddhist monks believe mental attributes and positive emotions such as compassion, loving kindness and empathy are skills that can be cultivated.
Science is beginning to back that up.
Davidson started meditating in 1974, when he was a Phd student at Harvard. Back then, meditation was seen as a somewhat faddish eastern import right up there with the dashiki and the Jesus sandal. (More)
“Our data shows mental practice can induce long-lasting changes in the brain,” said Davidson, professor of psychology and psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
His startling scientific research on the impact of meditation on brain function has implications that go beyond the physical.
Buddhist monks believe mental attributes and positive emotions such as compassion, loving kindness and empathy are skills that can be cultivated.
Science is beginning to back that up.
Davidson started meditating in 1974, when he was a Phd student at Harvard. Back then, meditation was seen as a somewhat faddish eastern import right up there with the dashiki and the Jesus sandal. (More)
Source: Vancouver Sun
Friday, September 25, 2009
Meditators Are Awake In The Moment
Energy is perhaps the best word to describe it.
It's in the air at the Shamatha mediation group in the Victoria Unitarian Universalist Church where people rest with crossed legs and bowed heads atop yoga mats and towels.
Instructor, Marilyn Couch, a Tibetan Buddhist, is perched atop a cushion next to a Tibetan singing bowl.
A soft tapping of its bronze edge creates a dreamy bell melody that signals the beginning of the mediation.
The people here are from all walks of life. Each meditating for a different reason be it religious, spiritual or physical. All though are in a quest for a heightened sense of spirituality that transcends religious ties.
"I would say every faith has its own meditation tradition," said Lisa DeVries, a practicing member of the group.
No one here is asked to become a Buddhist to learn meditation. The only qualification is a desire for self-exploration.
"It's just more about being aware of who you are," said Susan Toombs, who's been meditating since her teens. "It's the most peaceful calming centering thing that I've ever done. It's cheaper than drugs and it has better side effects." (More)
It's in the air at the Shamatha mediation group in the Victoria Unitarian Universalist Church where people rest with crossed legs and bowed heads atop yoga mats and towels.
Instructor, Marilyn Couch, a Tibetan Buddhist, is perched atop a cushion next to a Tibetan singing bowl.
A soft tapping of its bronze edge creates a dreamy bell melody that signals the beginning of the mediation.
The people here are from all walks of life. Each meditating for a different reason be it religious, spiritual or physical. All though are in a quest for a heightened sense of spirituality that transcends religious ties.
"I would say every faith has its own meditation tradition," said Lisa DeVries, a practicing member of the group.
No one here is asked to become a Buddhist to learn meditation. The only qualification is a desire for self-exploration.
"It's just more about being aware of who you are," said Susan Toombs, who's been meditating since her teens. "It's the most peaceful calming centering thing that I've ever done. It's cheaper than drugs and it has better side effects." (More)
Source: Victoria Advocate
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Daily Inspiration
Eliminate stress and internal conflicts of the mind in under 9 minutes! For complete effect we recommend use of headphones for this video.
Meditating Toward Health
Tucker Peck, a doctoral student in clinical psychology, demonstrates a common meditation pose on Monday, Sep. 21. Peck is the founder of the Arizona Meditation Research Interest Group, a club that is dedicated to scientific research into meditation and its effects on those who practice it.
There is more to meditation than sitting in the lotus position.
Tucker Peck, a psychology doctoral student, founded this club in November 2008 and now serves as its president.
The club began as a group of graduate students researching the biological and psychological effects of meditation, but later expanded to include a diverse group of people, he said. (More)
There is more to meditation than sitting in the lotus position.
Tucker Peck, a psychology doctoral student, founded this club in November 2008 and now serves as its president.
The club began as a group of graduate students researching the biological and psychological effects of meditation, but later expanded to include a diverse group of people, he said. (More)
Source: Arizona Daily Wildcat
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Meditation: Strengthens, Focuses the Mind
Mrs Janita Hargoven prepares to get into position by sitting in an erect posture with her legs crossed. Her hands rest on her upper thighs, while her two fingers, the index and thumb, are firmly locked together.
She takes a long, deep breath and maintains the position with her eyes shut and then after what seems like a “brief” 30 minutes, she opens her eyes.
“I feel relaxed,” she said. “It is a unique feeling of tranquillity, bliss and purity and it also helps me delve into my inner being and attain inward contentment.”
Mrs Harvogen, who is the instructor at Brahma Kumaris Meditation School in Harare’s Milton Park suburb, said the posture, known as the Lotus position in medidation or yoga, has the effect of strengthening and focusing the mind.
“When you are in this posture, all seven auras available to a human being are aligned,” she said. (More)
She takes a long, deep breath and maintains the position with her eyes shut and then after what seems like a “brief” 30 minutes, she opens her eyes.
“I feel relaxed,” she said. “It is a unique feeling of tranquillity, bliss and purity and it also helps me delve into my inner being and attain inward contentment.”
Mrs Harvogen, who is the instructor at Brahma Kumaris Meditation School in Harare’s Milton Park suburb, said the posture, known as the Lotus position in medidation or yoga, has the effect of strengthening and focusing the mind.
“When you are in this posture, all seven auras available to a human being are aligned,” she said. (More)
Source: The Sunday Mail
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Mindful Meditation, Shared Dialogues Reduce Physician Burnout
Training also improves attitudes about patients and their care.
Training in mindfulness meditation and communication can alleviate the psychological distress and burnout experienced by many physicians and can improve their well-being, University of Rochester Medical Center researchers report in today's issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
The training also can expand a physician's capacity to relate to patients and enhance patient-centered care, according to the researchers, who were led by Michael S. Krasner, M.D., associate professor of Clinical Medicine.
"From the patient's perspective, we hear all too often of dissatisfaction in the quality of presence from their physician. From the practitioner's perspective, the opportunity for deeper connection is all too often missed in the stressful, complex, and chaotic reality of medical practice," Krasner said. "Enhancing the already inherent capacity of the physician to experience fully the clinical encounter—not only its pleasant but also its most unpleasant aspects—without judgment but with a sense of curiosity and adventure seems to have had a profound effect on the experience of stress and burnout. It also seems to enhance the physician's ability to connect with the patient as a unique human being and to center care around that uniqueness. (More)
Training in mindfulness meditation and communication can alleviate the psychological distress and burnout experienced by many physicians and can improve their well-being, University of Rochester Medical Center researchers report in today's issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
The training also can expand a physician's capacity to relate to patients and enhance patient-centered care, according to the researchers, who were led by Michael S. Krasner, M.D., associate professor of Clinical Medicine.
"From the patient's perspective, we hear all too often of dissatisfaction in the quality of presence from their physician. From the practitioner's perspective, the opportunity for deeper connection is all too often missed in the stressful, complex, and chaotic reality of medical practice," Krasner said. "Enhancing the already inherent capacity of the physician to experience fully the clinical encounter—not only its pleasant but also its most unpleasant aspects—without judgment but with a sense of curiosity and adventure seems to have had a profound effect on the experience of stress and burnout. It also seems to enhance the physician's ability to connect with the patient as a unique human being and to center care around that uniqueness. (More)
Source: EurekAlert.com
Monday, September 21, 2009
Music and Meditation
Music has a lot of power. It can make you laugh, it can make you cry, it can bring back memories long forgotten and it can help you create new ones. I love music and my tastes are about as eclectic as they come. Music of any type or genre can be enjoyed if it speaks to you in just the right way. My parents brought me up to give any and all music a try, if I liked it: great, if not: that's fine too. I played a few instruments as a kid, primarily the flute and piccolo and I played in a variety of styles and ensembles from chamber orchestras to marching bands. As an adult, I'm more of a listener than a player. I listen to all sorts of music, everything from classical to rock to hip-hop and jazz with a few detours into Bhangra and world music. I listen to music while doing just about everything in my life; I listen when I run, when I drive, when I work and when I do yoga. But one aspect of my life has continued to be completely music-free, in a word: meditation. (More)
Source: Beliefnet.com
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Meditation Pilot For City School
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi became a well known figure in the 1960s
Cardiff schools could introduce a pilot Transcendental Meditation (TM) programme to relieve stress on pupils.
One unnamed secondary school is to give it a trial on a voluntary basis.
It followers say TM is a means of clearing and resting the mind through a series of chants and relaxation exercises which anyone can learn.
Freda Salway, Cardiff council's executive member for education, said anything to lessen the load was a welcome addition to the curriculum.
TM hit the headlines in 1967 in Wales, when the Beatles met the movement's founder Maharishi Mahesh Yogi on a retreat in Bangor.
According to south Wales instructor Helen Evans, however, the 60s left a legacy of mixed blessings, with TM becoming more widely known and associated with the era of psychedelia and the Woodstock generation.
"Sgt Pepper and the like probably put back serious scientific research into the benefits of TM by about 10 or 20 years," said Ms Evans.
Cardiff schools could introduce a pilot Transcendental Meditation (TM) programme to relieve stress on pupils.
One unnamed secondary school is to give it a trial on a voluntary basis.
It followers say TM is a means of clearing and resting the mind through a series of chants and relaxation exercises which anyone can learn.
Freda Salway, Cardiff council's executive member for education, said anything to lessen the load was a welcome addition to the curriculum.
TM hit the headlines in 1967 in Wales, when the Beatles met the movement's founder Maharishi Mahesh Yogi on a retreat in Bangor.
According to south Wales instructor Helen Evans, however, the 60s left a legacy of mixed blessings, with TM becoming more widely known and associated with the era of psychedelia and the Woodstock generation.
"Sgt Pepper and the like probably put back serious scientific research into the benefits of TM by about 10 or 20 years," said Ms Evans.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Meditation: Effective New Aid Ffor Students With ADHD
A panel of physicians and scientists will report on the benefits of a simple meditation practice for aiding students diagnosed with ADHD during a national medical webinar, which will be hosted by the David Lynch Foundation on Wednesday, September 30, 12 noon (ET).
The webinar, which comes on the final day of National ADHD Public Awareness Month, will report on published research on the effects of the Transcendental Meditation technique for improving academic achievement and executive brain function while reducing learning disorders, anxiety, depression, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and heart disease. (More)
The webinar, which comes on the final day of National ADHD Public Awareness Month, will report on published research on the effects of the Transcendental Meditation technique for improving academic achievement and executive brain function while reducing learning disorders, anxiety, depression, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and heart disease. (More)
Source: psyorg.com
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Medical Doctor Creates 'Mantra Medicine' Company
Dr. Mitchell Earl Gibson, a
board-certified medical doctor in High Point, North Carolina, has formed a
company that creates mantra and prayer-meditation-based recordings.
Hundreds of research studies have shown that mantras, prayer and meditation
techniques can successfully lower blood pressure, help decrease chronic pain,
anxiety, digestive problems and ease emotional problems. In many cases, these
studies have shown that as little as twenty minutes of daily meditation with
mantras can have profound effects on the body.
Dr. Gibson investigated hundreds of ancient texts in order to discover the
most powerful healing mantras and prayers from around the world. He made
recordings of those mantras and mixed them with soothing meditative music. He
gave a number of depressed and anxious clients the recordings and instructed
them to meditate with the CD once daily in addition to their regular medical
treatment. (More)
board-certified medical doctor in High Point, North Carolina, has formed a
company that creates mantra and prayer-meditation-based recordings.
Hundreds of research studies have shown that mantras, prayer and meditation
techniques can successfully lower blood pressure, help decrease chronic pain,
anxiety, digestive problems and ease emotional problems. In many cases, these
studies have shown that as little as twenty minutes of daily meditation with
mantras can have profound effects on the body.
Dr. Gibson investigated hundreds of ancient texts in order to discover the
most powerful healing mantras and prayers from around the world. He made
recordings of those mantras and mixed them with soothing meditative music. He
gave a number of depressed and anxious clients the recordings and instructed
them to meditate with the CD once daily in addition to their regular medical
treatment. (More)
Source: Reuters
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Daily Inspiration
ON LINE MEDITATION WITH MUSIC FROM EMILE KOELINK HEALING RELAXING TAKING YOU WHO YOU ARE IN SILENCE.
Meditative Guide Julie Zipper Helps People Find Their Zen
Like any skill that you need to learn, it helps to have a teacher.
We take guidance on how to drive a car, balance our checkbooks and a myriad of other things, so why not find a teacher to help you on your spiritual path?
That's exactly what Julie Zipper does, both in private practice and for Soulgarden Collective TV, where she does a show called Meditation Vibration.
As a meditation teacher, Julie facilitates an environment for people to forge their own path into a deeper spiritual known that has become unknown somewhere along the way, helping them unlock the path to finding their true inner selves. (More)
We take guidance on how to drive a car, balance our checkbooks and a myriad of other things, so why not find a teacher to help you on your spiritual path?
That's exactly what Julie Zipper does, both in private practice and for Soulgarden Collective TV, where she does a show called Meditation Vibration.
As a meditation teacher, Julie facilitates an environment for people to forge their own path into a deeper spiritual known that has become unknown somewhere along the way, helping them unlock the path to finding their true inner selves. (More)
Source: Digital City
Monday, September 14, 2009
Daily Inspiration
This is a beautiful meditation for deep relaxation. It is illustrated with beautiful pictures of nature filmed by Taho in France.
Meditation Can Keep BP Under Control
Meditation is not only a stress buster, it also helps in regulating high blood pressure with an added benefit of bypassing possible side effects and hazards of anti-hypertension drugs, says a new study.
In the new meta-analysis, researchers from University of Kentucky conducted nine randomized, controlled trials with Transcendental Meditation as a primary intervention for hypertensive patients.
The findings revealed that practicing Transcendental Meditation led to approximate reduction of 4.7 mm systolic blood pressure and 3.2 mm diastolic blood pressure. (More)
In the new meta-analysis, researchers from University of Kentucky conducted nine randomized, controlled trials with Transcendental Meditation as a primary intervention for hypertensive patients.
The findings revealed that practicing Transcendental Meditation led to approximate reduction of 4.7 mm systolic blood pressure and 3.2 mm diastolic blood pressure. (More)
Source: pakwatan.com
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Daily Inspiration
This song was shot at SunWatch Village and used in a PBS Special about the village
Health Talk & You: Meditation and Reducing Stress
People drive in their cars, eat lunch, and walk their dogs every day without remembering. Thoughts and worries concerning the past and future can often consume people to a point of detachment from the present, forcing them into an autopilot mode. One way to ditch this habit is meditation.
Through self-directed practices for relaxing the body and mind, meditation has proven to reduce depression, blood pressure, and stress. It may even help people sleep better. (More)
Through self-directed practices for relaxing the body and mind, meditation has proven to reduce depression, blood pressure, and stress. It may even help people sleep better. (More)
Source: Fox 21 News
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Key to Happiness? Be Kind, Exercise, Meditate
Follow the seven steps to be clearer of mind and less burdened of body, writes Hannah Booth.
Happiness is proving elusive for many and depression rates are growing in the West, prompting psychology researchers to try to pinpoint exactly what makes us happy. Here are some of their findings.
1. Be positive, says Barbara Fredrickson, University of North Carolina
''Positivity makes you more attractive and resilient, with lower blood pressure, less pain, fewer colds, better sleep. Increase the number of positive emotions in your day, however fleeting. One can lead to another and so on, until we're in an upward spiral of positivity. Take a moment to find the good in a situation. Don't over-generalise ('I can never hold down a relationship'), jump to conclusions ('I'll never finish this job') or ruminate endlessly. Any healthy distraction - a run, a swim - that lifts your mood is good.'' (More)
Happiness is proving elusive for many and depression rates are growing in the West, prompting psychology researchers to try to pinpoint exactly what makes us happy. Here are some of their findings.
1. Be positive, says Barbara Fredrickson, University of North Carolina
''Positivity makes you more attractive and resilient, with lower blood pressure, less pain, fewer colds, better sleep. Increase the number of positive emotions in your day, however fleeting. One can lead to another and so on, until we're in an upward spiral of positivity. Take a moment to find the good in a situation. Don't over-generalise ('I can never hold down a relationship'), jump to conclusions ('I'll never finish this job') or ruminate endlessly. Any healthy distraction - a run, a swim - that lifts your mood is good.'' (More)
Source: Sydney Morning Hearld
Friday, September 11, 2009
MEDITATE YOUR WAY TO GOOD LIFE
Meditation is fast gaining recognition worldwide. In America, 10 million people now claim to meditate daily and this number is rapidly growing. Just type meditation on your browser and see how many pops up.
Meditation works and more and more doctors are recommending it. The following news headlines taken from 2003 help explain the sudden interest in meditation.
From the Washington Times – Aug 14, 2003
A new study shows [that] people who underwent meditation training produced more antibodies to a flu vaccine than people who did not meditate. Those who took part in the meditation study also showed signs of increased activity in areas of the brain related to positive emotion, as compared to people who did not meditate.
CBS News – Aug 27, 2003
People who meditate these days come from all walks of life and aren’t necessarily weird New Agers or pretentious actors. Students, lawyers, West Point cadets, athletes, prisoners, and government officials all meditate. It’s supposed to help depression, control pain, increase longevity, slow down cancers, invigorate the immune system, and significantly reduce blood pressure. Time magazine recently reported that “meditation can sometimes be used to replace Viagra.” (More)
Meditation works and more and more doctors are recommending it. The following news headlines taken from 2003 help explain the sudden interest in meditation.
From the Washington Times – Aug 14, 2003
A new study shows [that] people who underwent meditation training produced more antibodies to a flu vaccine than people who did not meditate. Those who took part in the meditation study also showed signs of increased activity in areas of the brain related to positive emotion, as compared to people who did not meditate.
CBS News – Aug 27, 2003
People who meditate these days come from all walks of life and aren’t necessarily weird New Agers or pretentious actors. Students, lawyers, West Point cadets, athletes, prisoners, and government officials all meditate. It’s supposed to help depression, control pain, increase longevity, slow down cancers, invigorate the immune system, and significantly reduce blood pressure. Time magazine recently reported that “meditation can sometimes be used to replace Viagra.” (More)
Source: The Star
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Daily Inspiration
Video/photo montage of Canyon de Chelly Arizona on Navajo land and Zion Canyon Utah set to Native American Flute music by Randy Granger
The Top Meditation Misunderstandings
Learning Meditation is a Valuable Life SkillMeditation is growing increasingly in popularity for reason raging from stress relief to the pursuit of enlightenment. None the less there are still many misunderstandings about what meditation is and how it is done. Here the eight most common misunderstandings are clarified.
Misunderstanding #1 Meditation is stopping thinking and having a blank mind.
This is probably the number one misunderstanding about meditation - that meditation is to "stop thinking." Certainly, a benefit of long term meditation is a reduction in the the amount of thinking that goes on, and that is great. The inane, repetitive and usually negative chatter of thoughts that jump one to another in their minds is one of the first things people new to meditation are confronted by. (More)
Misunderstanding #1 Meditation is stopping thinking and having a blank mind.
This is probably the number one misunderstanding about meditation - that meditation is to "stop thinking." Certainly, a benefit of long term meditation is a reduction in the the amount of thinking that goes on, and that is great. The inane, repetitive and usually negative chatter of thoughts that jump one to another in their minds is one of the first things people new to meditation are confronted by. (More)
Source: The Examiner
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Being Young, Here, Now
Meditation groups say cyber generation is looking inward to counter stress.
Nestled in the woods of this small town, 96 young adults recently gathered at a quiet mansion for a weeklong sojourn, away from buzzing cellphones, humming iPods, and the myriad callings of human and cyber civilizations.
Keeping even the most basic forms of communication, like speaking and writing, to a minimum, they meditated in silence, practicing vipassana, or insight meditation, an ancient Buddhist technique that involves focusing one’s attention on the present, on the breath, mind, and body. (More)
Nestled in the woods of this small town, 96 young adults recently gathered at a quiet mansion for a weeklong sojourn, away from buzzing cellphones, humming iPods, and the myriad callings of human and cyber civilizations.
Keeping even the most basic forms of communication, like speaking and writing, to a minimum, they meditated in silence, practicing vipassana, or insight meditation, an ancient Buddhist technique that involves focusing one’s attention on the present, on the breath, mind, and body. (More)
Source: Boston Globe
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Transcendental Meditation in Schools, the David Lynch Program
Expel from your mind the stereotyped image of the robed, bearded yogi. Forget the worn image of the unkempt, hash-headed, lotus-seated hippy listening to sitar music in an incense-filled room behind a beaded curtain. This is not the Transcendental Meditation [TM] we are talking about. This is Science!
“Hundreds of scientific studies have been conducted on the benefits of the Transcendental Meditation program at more than 200 independent universities and research institutions worldwide in the past 35 years,” explains the TM-promoting David Lynch Foundation for Consciousness-Based Education and World Peace website. Among the positive side-effects of the TM program, we find: increased focus, decreased hostility, reduced anxiety, even a reduction in cardiovascular disease among practitioners.
Surely, with this in mind, no reasonable person would argue against teaching the TM method in public schools. (More)
“Hundreds of scientific studies have been conducted on the benefits of the Transcendental Meditation program at more than 200 independent universities and research institutions worldwide in the past 35 years,” explains the TM-promoting David Lynch Foundation for Consciousness-Based Education and World Peace website. Among the positive side-effects of the TM program, we find: increased focus, decreased hostility, reduced anxiety, even a reduction in cardiovascular disease among practitioners.
Surely, with this in mind, no reasonable person would argue against teaching the TM method in public schools. (More)
Source: The Examiner
Monday, September 7, 2009
Daily Inspiration
CHAKRAS: A poetic description of the chakras. Understanding of the chakras is widely used in both yoga and in Reiki healing.
Meditation in Motion
Say hello to feeling calm, refreshed and energized. With tai chi, there’s no sweating or panting, but you’ll achieve vibrant health anyway.
The term “tai chi” probably evokes an image of a group of senior citizens practicing slow motion exercises in a park in the morning. Although there’s nothing wrong with that impression, there is actually plenty more about tai chi that might mean you find it is right for you.
So, what’s really interesting about tai chi, which offers benefits for people of all ages?
Described as meditation in motion, this ancient Chinese martial art is believed to be able to connect the mind and body. By promoting serenity through its flowing graceful movements, tai chi can help reduce the stress of today’s busy lifestyles and improve overall health.
How? By promoting the circulation of life energy (or chi) within our body. (More)
The term “tai chi” probably evokes an image of a group of senior citizens practicing slow motion exercises in a park in the morning. Although there’s nothing wrong with that impression, there is actually plenty more about tai chi that might mean you find it is right for you.
So, what’s really interesting about tai chi, which offers benefits for people of all ages?
Described as meditation in motion, this ancient Chinese martial art is believed to be able to connect the mind and body. By promoting serenity through its flowing graceful movements, tai chi can help reduce the stress of today’s busy lifestyles and improve overall health.
How? By promoting the circulation of life energy (or chi) within our body. (More)
Source: The Jakarta Post
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Daily Inspiration
Relaxation videos spiritual Indian flute.Our natural world is alive with beauty and wonder. It is important for our peace of mind and our enthusiasm for life to love the world we live in and care for the earth and all living things
Age in a Healthy way With Food, Meditation, Exercise and Massage
Aging in a healthy way in today’s social climate isn’t as hard as you might think. The elements we surround ourselves with are a good start.
First, let’s look at the food supply we have been given. It’s definitely plentiful. It is important to recognize that many foods have been altered and can cause many illnesses. To understand where your meats, canned, boxed and frozen foods come from and what they contain is very important. Additives alone can affect the way we feel. Take note that much of today’s meat and milk supply contain drugs and diseases, which our bodies cannot sustain. The U.S. alone has a huge problem with obesity and health care and much of this is caused by the food we choose to eat. (More)
First, let’s look at the food supply we have been given. It’s definitely plentiful. It is important to recognize that many foods have been altered and can cause many illnesses. To understand where your meats, canned, boxed and frozen foods come from and what they contain is very important. Additives alone can affect the way we feel. Take note that much of today’s meat and milk supply contain drugs and diseases, which our bodies cannot sustain. The U.S. alone has a huge problem with obesity and health care and much of this is caused by the food we choose to eat. (More)
Source: The Examiner
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Self Hypnosis vs. Meditation
Many of us have heard of the benefits of meditation: a calmer, more focused mind; feeling less emotional; a reduction in anxiety; feeling happier because of the cascade of beta-endorphins and serotonin (“feel good chemicals”) that is produced. But how do we achieve that? Isn’t a meditation practice time consuming and frustrating? How does it differ from self hypnosis, since both practices take you into trance? Why would you choose one over the other? These are some of the questions we will look at here. (More)
Source: The Examiner
Friday, September 4, 2009
UWF Graduates Can Help You Learn to Find Your Center
Tantalizing essential oils and incense immediately intoxicate the senses of anyone stepping into the little gift shop, which is celebrating its two-year anniversary.
Recent UWF graduate and Cottage employee Crystal Evans, known as the “Love Diva,” provides love and relationship guidance.
“I’m here to help people,” Evans said.
Another former UWF student, Erika Boussarhane, leads the weekly meditation classes, which draws heavily on visualization techniques while incorporating soothing sounds and utilizing tools, such as singing bowls, worry stones and pure essential oils to facilitate relaxation. (More)
Recent UWF graduate and Cottage employee Crystal Evans, known as the “Love Diva,” provides love and relationship guidance.
“I’m here to help people,” Evans said.
Another former UWF student, Erika Boussarhane, leads the weekly meditation classes, which draws heavily on visualization techniques while incorporating soothing sounds and utilizing tools, such as singing bowls, worry stones and pure essential oils to facilitate relaxation. (More)
Source: UWF Voyager
Thursday, September 3, 2009
U. Studying Meditation as Sleep Aid for Cancer Survivors
The complementary alternative treatments could let patients avoid the side effects of sleep drugs.
Cancer patients who have trouble getting sleep at night are being sought for a new pilot study exploring the potential of meditation techniques as sleep aids.
The study will probe the effectiveness of "mindfulness meditation" and "mind-body bridging."
"Awareness training using mind-body interventions is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to pharmacotherapy, which may have many side effects," said University of Utah researcher David Lipschitz, who along with Yoshio Nakamura, another U. researcher, will be conducting the study.
Mindfulness meditation teaches awareness and the skill of paying attention in a particular way, on purpose, in the present moment. It combines basic meditation and yoga, and is based on a program called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, or MBSR. (More)
Cancer patients who have trouble getting sleep at night are being sought for a new pilot study exploring the potential of meditation techniques as sleep aids.
The study will probe the effectiveness of "mindfulness meditation" and "mind-body bridging."
"Awareness training using mind-body interventions is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to pharmacotherapy, which may have many side effects," said University of Utah researcher David Lipschitz, who along with Yoshio Nakamura, another U. researcher, will be conducting the study.
Mindfulness meditation teaches awareness and the skill of paying attention in a particular way, on purpose, in the present moment. It combines basic meditation and yoga, and is based on a program called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, or MBSR. (More)
Source: The Salt Lake Tribune
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Mindfulness and Meditation can Help Relieve Stress
Mindfulness and meditation can help relieve stress
Technology has enhanced life beyond all wild expectations, but many people have a hard time ‘unplugging’ from the information overload in order to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Missing a call, text or email seems like it would be catastrophic; what did people do before cell phones?
A perfect way to unwind, de-stress and disconnect is through cultivating a mindfulness practice. (More)
Technology has enhanced life beyond all wild expectations, but many people have a hard time ‘unplugging’ from the information overload in order to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Missing a call, text or email seems like it would be catastrophic; what did people do before cell phones?
A perfect way to unwind, de-stress and disconnect is through cultivating a mindfulness practice. (More)
Source: The Examiner
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
How To Set Up a Meditation Altar
An altar is simply a sacred space. It is an area to help one to focus on his or her connection with spirit or the divine. When one thinks of an altar, one might think of a church or temple. However, it is entirely possible to create a personal altar in one’s home for one’s personal spiritual practice such as meditation. Meditation is a process requiring focus. Altars help create the energy required for focus, but also as a physical reminder for the mind and spirit to get into the meditative state. Having some continuity in one’s meditation practice helps with fostering deeper connection and more tranquility due to the familiarity, peace, and comfort of the surroundings one creates.
Here are some tips for setting up one’s own meditation altar: (More)
Here are some tips for setting up one’s own meditation altar: (More)
Source: The Examiner
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