Folks say, “meditate…!"
What does that mean?
According to various examples of meditation demonstrated on the internet, one might assume it requires sitting still in silence with rested hands and eyes-closed.
Sure, that is one of the many effective ways to meditate, but it is not my 'go-to.'
Meditation, in my own words, is a construct of thoughts which conditions the mind to respond and adapt efficiently and appropriately when presented stress, adversity, unfamiliarity, pandemonium and darkness.
My meditations, like most workouts, vary based on influence of moods, meals and gears. I may paralyze all movement or yell at the top of my lungs. I consider each a different form of meditation as I am allowing my mind to connect (and disconnect) with my body and the world around me. This is important considering we lose touch with our own selves in fast-paced, gregarious-driven social norms.
Truthfully, we all need time to ourselves more often than not. Creating this unity with our mind allows us to:
>seek silence in chaos.
>smile when angry.
>relax when frustrated.
>breathe when exhausted.
>feel gratitude in sadness.
>resist temptation.
>prepare for panic.
>transfer and create energy.
>remain calm and collective under pressure.
>control the heart rate.
>withstand hot/cold temperatures.
>imagine the unknown.
A few things that work for me:
1) Implementing movements with various speeds (preferably slow) while focusing on each breath, positioning arms, and projecting my voice, allows for many components of my being to connect and work in ways American culture would otherwise promote. I owe much of this method to T'ai Chi Ch'uan, as it has taught me how to transfer energy and focus in the moment's rest.
2) Love exceeds the hatred in my relationship for cold temperatures, largely because brief exposure to blistering cold water provides numerous physical health benefits; for example, it reduces inflammation, increases metabolism and improves lymphatic and cardiovascular circulation. However, I am more intrigued in the mental disruption that takes place upon absorbing subzero temperatures. It forces me to unlock chambers of thoughts and tactics in order to withstand such degrees. Overtime, I have discovered many of these applications are transferrable to other obstacles- mental, physical and emotional.
3) Me versus me: It may refer to a physically exhausting workout that brings me to near failure requiring my mind to dig deeper for motivation than ever before. Or, I may be simply utilizing the creativity within me. From wood-carving to writing, it is up to me, my thoughts and my skills to brainstorm and accomplish a given task. Yes, between the peace of mind and hand-mind-body-eye coordination involved, this is a way I meditate.
To enhance practices and techniques, try experimenting with the following:
*Stances: incorporate imbalance, uneven levels and change of surface (rugged, narrow, barefoot, etc.); sit, kneel, lay down.
*Environments: submerge yourself in cold temperatures, storms, heat, on a rock, deep in forests, in a tree, etc.
*Art: whether it’s music, paint, writing or wood-carving, having a creative outlet will act as a therapeutic way to express and seek peace of mind which will likely promote clear thought and self-growth.
*Discomfort: this is, in my opinion, the ultimate test of character and discipline, and will determine one's strength of mentality and level of practice.
*Breathwork: Breathe lightly, fast, heavily, steady, slow! Inhale, hold! Exhale, Hold. Repeat! Play around with it.
How to determine a meditation is successful?
First of all, I rarely begin a practice or activity labeling it a meditation beforehand; therefore, I'm not obliged to rate or confirm it was effective or not. Instead, think of it as a hobby, which overtime will evolve into habit. I highly suggest finding something you enjoy, whether it be the people, environment, convenience, etc. Again, depending on your choice of meditation, you may feel relaxed, energized, exhausted, calm, empowered, conscious and prepared, to name a few.
11 Additional words I relate to meditation:
-Reflection
-Purpose
-Devotion
-Intention
-Preparation
-Study
-Intention
-Prayer
-Nature
-Conscious
-Imagination
Want to know more? I'd be glad to send you a hand-written letter!
-Son of Mark
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