Meditation Myths

There are many myths about meditation: what to do, how to sit, and what it should feel like. There is also a myth about why we meditate, and it might be different than you think. We meditate in order to experience love, so that we may act more loving towards others. All of yoga, meditation, and our spiritual practices are meant to bring us closer to love.

Meditation is a state of mind, one where we are fully present and fully able to experience the current moment.

Rather than think of meditation as something you do, think of meditation as something you are, as a result of presence. By practicing presence, you arrive in a new awareness, and this loving awareness is meditation.

More than any technique, meditation changes who we are. As a result of meditation, we become more loving, more open, more kind. Meditation actually changes our character - we feel more present and therefore more loved and guided. When we believe in the love and connection of humanity, we act more loving towards others. I don't think I have ever finished a good meditation and felt judgmental or angry. Meditation is a state of peace. I can still be stressed, scared, or sad, but I am less likely to react to my emotions when I am present.

Meditation can include movement - I have entered states of meditation while driving (still being able to focus on the road), walking, running, and during yoga. We can be present while doing other activities that bring us out of the rational mind and into a more relaxed state of awareness, like cooking, knitting, or journaling.

Meditation can include prayer, words of affirmation, or mantras.

Meditation is a sustained amount of time in the present. Meditation feels like clarity. I would also describe it as a feeling of oneness, like everything is connected and everything will be ok. I am completely at ease. I am full of love. I have no regrets.

To meditate, get present. Be in a comfortable seated position or lie down. You can also be walking mindfully. Once present, find a focus. Observe the breath, or a cloud, or a candle. Observe the darkness behind your closed eyes. Stay connected to the senses rather than thoughts. Allow your awareness to expand in order to observe your full experience. And see if you sense anything different, anything that feels like love or deeper connection to your true nature.

Don't let the idea of meditation be so big or so complex that you shy away from the experience. Practice being present, with your breath or anything for focus. The purpose of meditation is not to reach an enlightened state and then remain separate from the world. Through meditation, we experience love, and we can share this love and service with others. Presence, and a non-judgmental view of your experience, is key.