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Meditation, which has been practiced for thousands of years, is an effective means of treating stress and managing pain. Broadly defined, meditation is an activity that calms the mind and keeps it focused on the present. In the meditative state, the mind is not cluttered with thoughts or memories of the past, nor is it concerned with future events.
Meditation has its origins in many different religious traditions. Perhaps the best-known meditative technique is yoga, which originated as part of the Hindu religion. No matter what the origin, however, all forms of meditation share a common goal: To achieve a stated devoid of thought. Called "centering," this is the highest expression of spiritual contemplation, and it can be achieved through a variety of means. For instance, reciting words, or mantras, controlling breathing patterns or engaging in physically active meditations, such as the trance dance, can all help people let go of everyday concerns. Modern science has shown that relaxation of the mind has a healing effect on the body, helping people to reduce stress and, in turn to prevent disease. People who meditate regularly feel more intensely that body, mind and soul are one.
MEDITATION TECHNIQUES
There are hundreds of meditation techniques, most of which fall into one or two categories:
- Concentrative Meditation - During concentrative meditation, attention is focused on a single sound, an object, or one's breath, to bring about a calm, tranquil mind. One simple, common technique involves sitting or lying comfortably in a quiet environment, closing your eyes, and focusing attention on your breath as you inhale through your nose for a count of three, then exhale through your mouth for a count of five. This focus on your breathing rhythm - slow, deep, regular breaths - allows your mind to become tranquil and aware.
- Mindfulness Meditation - During mindfulness meditation, the mind becomes aware of but does not react to the wide variety of sensations, feelings, and images tied in with a current activity. By sitting quietly and allowing the images of your surroundings to pass through your mind without reacting to or becoming involved with them, you can attain a calm state of mind.
Much research has been done on Transcendental Meditation (TM). TM brings about a state of deep relaxation in which the body is totally at rest, but the mind is highly alert. Studies show that meditation, especially TM, is effective in controlling anxiety, enhancing the immune system, and reducing conditions such as high blood pressure. Meditation has also been used successfully to treat chronic pain and to control substance abuse.
Meditation is an effective self-care technique that can be a useful part of your health care program. However, it is not an alternative to recommended medical attention.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Meditation exercises should be practiced regularly, preferably daily. The more frequently you practice, the more easily you will approach complete inner peace. Your meditative sessions need not be long to be successful, but you must be willing to let go of your everyday concerns and focus on relaxation.
MEDITATION - THE TREATMENT: Meditate at the same time of day and in the same place - preferably in a comfortable area where you will not be disturbed. Stick to one routine for several weeks before you try another. For specific instruction on a particular form of meditation, sign up for a class or workshop.
THE EFFECT OF MEDITATION: In a meditative state, metabolic processes, including respiration and blood flow, slow down. Scientists have documented this effect by measuring brain activity. In the waking brain, activity measures 13 to 30 Hertz (beta waves); during meditation, which mimics sleep, it is only 8-12 Hertz (alpha waves).
THE VIEW OF MAINSTREAM MEDICINE: The positive effect of meditation on the autonomic nervous system is not disputed. Neurological tests reveal that regular oscillation patterns occur in brain waves during meditation, reflecting deep relaxation. Meditation has been proven to ease stress, high blood pressure, emotional imbalance and depression; boosts energy; improves concentration; and helps strengthen the immune system.
A Little Lore - In traditional meditation, the mantra "om," from the Sanskrit language, is believed to contain sounds that encompass Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva - the Hindu Gods of Creation, Preservation & Destruction. Meditators all over the world use the mantra.
MEDITATION EXERCISE
GUIDED MEDITATION
Guided imagery with meditation or relaxation tapes can be beneficial while practicing yoga. Soft music and vivid stories take the listener away from everyday concerns and makes it simpler to reach a relaxed state. Other aids include concentrating on a specific object or reciting a mantra - pleasant sounding words that may or may not have significance.
LOTUS POSITION
The typical pose for meditation exercises is the lotus position, which is used in yoga. Sit on the floor and cross your right foot over your left thigh and your left foot over your right thigh. Your knees should touch the floor. Rest your hands on your thighs with your palms facing upward. This position requires a lot of flexibility, so novices may prefer sitting "Indian" style, with their knees bent and feet crossed at the ankles. Whatever position you prefer, make sure it allows you to fully relax.
CANDLE MEDITATION TECHNIQUE
One special type of meditation entails watching a burning candle. Sit in a darkened room and fix your attention on the flame.
1. Sit in a comfortable position that allows you to relax. Stare deeply and concentrate on the flame of the candle in front of you.
2. Relax and breathe softly and slowly through your nose. Take a few moments to think about nothing. Concentrate on how your abdomen slowly rises and falls with every breath and how the air flows through your entire body. A hand on your stomach may help awareness.
3. Allow your thoughts to wander serenely. Welcome every new thought like a good friend, but don't dwell on it. The calming light emitted by the candle will allow you to forget your everyday problems. You will feel less tension in your body and mental composure will result from this exercise.
I have also done this type of meditation using fireplace or campfire embers. I watch the hot coals dance. Watching snow fall is another suggestion. I have also meditated by a creek at night with a full moon and watch the sparks of moonlight on the ripples as a way to meditate. All of these can be very mesmerizing and helps one to go into an alpha meditative state.
MEDITATION PRODUCTS & SUPPLIES
HerbalRemedies: Getting In The Gap: Making Conscious Contact With God Through Medication Book With CD By Wayne W. Dyer
The practice of meditation takes us on a fabulous journey into the gap between our thoughts, where all the advantages of a more peaceful, stress-free, healthy, and fatigue-free life are available, but which are simply side benefits. The paramount reason for daily meditation is to get into the gap between our thoughts, and make conscious contact with the creative energy of life itself. Dr. Wayne W. Dyer explains the soul-nourishing meditation technique for making conscious contact with God, which the ancient masters have told us about.
HerbalRemedies: Dragons Blood Incenses, Hand Rolled, 8 Sticks Per Box
From times unknown agarbattis, also called incense sticks / prayer sticks are known to elevate moods.
HerbalRemedies: I Can Do It Affirmation Cards, 60 Affirmations By Louise L. Hay
Louise L. Hay, the internationally renowned author of You Can Heal Your Life, brings you 60 affirmation cards on a variety of subjects, including romance, wealth, health, forgiveness, creativity, stress, job success, and self-esteem.
HerbalRemedies: Meditations For Manifesting: Morning & Evening Meditations To Literally Create Your Heart's Desire, Audio CD, By Wayne W. Dyer
Dr. Dyer is a true renaissance man, sharing this meditation which he received from his teacher, with those of us who are open to receiving lavish goodness from all directions of God.
HerbalRemedies: Contacting Your Spirit Guide (Book W/CD), By Sylvia Browne
Contacting Your Spirit Guide is designed to help you find your spirit guide-the entity who is designated by you and God to help you with life and give you guidance.
HerbalRemedies: Meditate Wellness Oil, 2 fl. oz.
If you find it hard to quiet your mind to meditate, Meditate Wellness Oil was created just for you! The oils in this blend will help you attain a deeper state of relaxation allowing meditation to occur. Just apply to your wrists or your shoulders, breathe deeply, and OM.
HerbalRemedies: Buddha Meditation Metal Icon
The Buddha is shown in the Lotus posture, with his hands in the gesture for meditation. Perhaps more than any other way of showing the Buddha this style is very symbol of Buddhist teaching. The Buddha's invocation is "Namo Buddhaya".
HerbalRemedies: Meditation Incense Sticks, New Age Imports, 8 Sticks
A box of HEM Meditation incense contains 8 incense sticks.
HerbalRemedies: Mini Candles, Cranberry Red (Chakra Candles), 1/2 X 4 inches, 2 Hour Burn Time
This selection of colored mini candles are ideal for affirmations, meditations, and visualizations. Each 4" x 1/2" candle burns approximately 2 hours. Available in 10 vibrant colors to relate to your individual needs and to open each Chakra. These small candles are often used for Chakra Therapy, Chakra Meditation or may be used on large sheet cakes for birthday and anniversary celebrations.
COLORS AND CANDLES:
CRANBERRY RED: Love, passion, energy, enthusiasm, courage (1st Chakra)
ORANGE: Strength, authority, attraction, success, joy (2nd Chakra)
YELLOW: Clairvoyance, learning, mind, communication (3rd Chakra)
GREEN: Healing, money, prosperity, luck, fertility (4th Chakra)
BLUE: Healing, meditation, tranquility, forgiveness (5th Chakra)
PURPLE & LAVENDER: Spirituality, wisdom, psychic awareness (6th Chakra)
WHITE: Protection, peace, purity, truth (7th Chakra)
PINK: Emotional love, friendships, affection, harmony (4th Chakra)
CHERRY RED: Self love, enhancing relationships (4th Chakra)
BLACK: Absorption & destruction of negative energy (1st Chakra)
RELATED LINKS
Transcendental Meditation (TM) Program - Official U.S. Website
MOONDRAGON'S PAIN CONTROL LINKS
MoonDragon's Health Therapy: Pain Control
HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
HERBS, OILS, & SUPPLIES
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
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