Common Questions about Meditation
When giving meditation classes on behalf of the Sri Chinmoy Centre, questions such as these are often asked. These are some short answers to common questions.
1. What is Meditation?
Meditation is the art of silencing the mind. Meditation brings to the fore our inner consciousness; meditation is man's communion with his highest reality.
"When we meditate, what we actually do is enter into a vacant, calm, still, silent mind. We go deep within and approach our true existence, which is our soul." (1)
2. Is Meditation Difficult?
Meditation is difficult only when we live in the mind. If we can enter the heart, meditation becomes spontaneous and natural. When we first begin meditation, we may find it difficult; this is because we are so used to thinking and using the mind. However, with practise we can learn to ignore the mental thought process. Over time meditation becomes easier, but, we cannot expect instantaneous results.
More on: Is meditation difficult
3. How to Find Time to Meditate?
In modern society, most people feel under tremendous time pressure; to find time for meditation can seem difficult, if not impossible. However, if we value something, we will make time for it - it is the same with meditation. A very good time for meditation is early in the morning, if we can get up 15 minutes earlier, we can meditate before our daily activities.
4. Is Meditation Religious?
Meditation is practised be adherents of different religions. At the same time, meditation is practised by people who have no religion. Meditation is essentially about silencing the mind, therefore, the actual philosophy we believe in is not of the highest priority for meditation.
5. What are the Benefits of Meditation?
If we can practise meditation sincerely, we will feel inner peace and inner happiness. These divine qualities are not dependent on outer events or achievements; the inner happiness we can feel in meditation comes from our own soul. Meditation can also have other benefits, such as; better concentration, reduced stress, and peace of mind.
More on: Benefits of Meditation
6. Why can't I stop my thoughts?
Beginners to meditation often find that their mind is very restless; in fact it is quite difficult to control the mind. This is quite common; we are so used to thinking, that when we try to stop - the mind rebels. However, if we persevere and use the power of the spiritual heart, we slowly and gradually reduce the inflow of thoughts.
. Do I need a Meditation teacher?
Meditation is an individual exercise, if our aspiration is very strong then we can learn to meditate on our own. However, if we take the guidance of a spiritual teacher, our progress can be accelerated. If we meditate with others, this can also be of help and inspiration in our own meditation.
8. Secret of Meditation
There is no real secret of meditation; it is not something that we can master overnight. However, the most important thing to be able to meditate well is our aspiration. If we feel a burning inner flame inside; if we are inwardly yearning for peace, light and bliss, our meditation will be most productive.
Seven Secrets of Meditation by Sri Chinmoy
References
- Sri Chinmoy, A Sri Chinmoy Primer
- Meditation: Man Perfection in God Satisfaction by Sri Chinmoy at Amazon.