The Deeper Meaning of Meditation: What Is It and What It’s Not

Meditation qualities

Many people around the world explore meditation qualities. However, while many are interested in it, only a few truly understand its purpose. Yoga and meditation rely on both truths and myths, leaving people wondering what the truth is all about.

To understand what meditation is and what it is not, below is a list of interesting facts and myths about it:

Meditation Qualities Behind the Curtains
  • Meditation brings a number of benefits in as little as eight weeks

The University of Arizona and the University of Washington conducted a related study on meditation. The study revealed many of meditation’s qualities. For starters, those who practiced meditation had a better memory. At the same time, they experienced less stress than people who never meditated. In addition, meditators were able to switch and complete their tasks more successfully.

Meditation qualities have various levels. If you want to be stimulated beyond all challenges, it may take you some time. But, sometimes you just need is a bit more balance and peace in life. For this, you can your meditation journey today. 

  • You don’t need a “master” to meditate

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a “master” for yoga and meditation. In fact, you can learn meditation through books, workshops, or even video courses. From here, you can also meditate individually. You should strive to meditate on a deeper level. For that, you might need a professional’s guidance, but not for the long run. Still, learning from someone with more experience can enhance your ‘alone’ practice.

  • Meditation can improve your memory

One of the greatest meditation qualities is memory improvement. A study at the UCLA revealed that long-term meditation helps increase Gyrification. To be specific, Gyrification is the very folding of the cortex. The more folds on the cortex, the more surface area is created. Therefore, a greater retention of information begins to take place.

Another study was conducted by the Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging. The study revealed that people who meditate are better in adjusting their brain waves. Also, meditation practitioners are able to shield themselves from distractions faster. 

  • Meditation improves your brain’s ability to multitask

Editors of Scientific America suggested meditation improves the brain’s ability to multi-task. This is because the practice allows meditators to detect distractions. At the same time, they didn’t lose focus on the task they were currently working on.

  • Meditation is also beneficial in managing pain.

Meditation keeps you not just healthy but helps ease the pain as well. A recent research focused on this exact concept. The study later revealed that the pain level in volunteers decreased after a 20-minute meditation session. This proved that meditation qualities can change how the mind perceives pain. It teaches the brain to be present, steering clear of pain altogether.

Five Misconceptions about Meditation (What It’s Not)
  • Meditation is a religious/spiritual practice

Meditation is an old practice discovered within religious contexture. Hence, one of its purposes is accomplishing spiritual goals. However, these have very little to do with religion. Meditation is not a religion. You can meditate without having to believe in anything. Regardless whether you’re a Muslim, Buddhist, or a Christian, you can practice meditation. While at it, you will never have to worry about it conflicting with your own faith. Also, know that many people meditate exclusively for its qualities and health benefits.

  • Meditation is difficult

If you set your expectations too high, the meditation will be difficult for you. You need to understand that meditation is a process, not a thing. To be fully successful in it, you have to learn to enjoy this process. You need to let go of expectations, comparison, and self-criticism instantly. From here, you will understand that meditation is not hard at all.

  • Meditation requires you to repress your thoughts and empty your mind

No, meditation is not concentration Osho, which means it will not require you to fight nor repress your thoughts. Fighting with your thoughts can easily push you into a state of agitation. What meditation actually does is continuously regulate your attention. At the same time, it empties your mind of negative vibes. However, you must remember that meditation is not trying to actively “empty the mind.” Instead, it is placing your attention to a single point, stabilizing your consciousness.

  • You need to have a “calm mind” to meditate

Again, meditation is not concentration, and it’s definitely not a requirement to have a “calm mind” to meditate. Anyone can meditate. In fact, if your mind is restless or agitated, the more you are encouraged to meditate. No one has a “calm mind.” This is the sole reason why everybody needs some form of meditation.

  • You will feel bored when you meditate

This will all depend on your attitude. If you expect meditation to be entertaining, then you are more likely to find it boring. Many people are allotting a certain amount of time out of their busy schedule to meditate. Why is that so? It’s because they found something deeply satisfying about the practice.

Conclusion

There are many people who are interested in yoga and meditation. But there are still many misconceptions about it. This has urged people to question meditation in the first place. To allay whatever doubts regarding meditation qualities, it is best to read up on it first. Also, ask friends who practice meditation for any advice to guide you with the practice.