Through meditation, how does a person learn to focus all of their thought energy on one single thing? I know there are techniques where you focus on a candle, for example, or your breathing. But what does that mean? What does it mean to focus your mind on a single object...do you study it, do you recite its characteristics in your head? If so, how do you stay interested. Breathing in and out isn't that interesting (or runs out of notable characteristics [to me]) after a few minutes.
I know these are really beginner questions when it comes to meditation, but learning to focus my mind and clear out the clutter is something I really want to learn. So I appreciate any advice you have.
Thanks!
2007-07-22 08:00:07 · 5 answers · asked by Casey C 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
When you follow your breath, you don't get involved with it at all. You just notice it and pay attention to the sensation at the tip of your nose (that's one way). Another method is counting your inhalation and your exhalation by using 1,2,3,4,5 and then reversing the order. When you forget the number you are on then your mind has wandered off. It takes a while to calm a busy mind and your mind will resist it (everyone has experienced this) however if you just observe (meaning if a thought pops up and they will just say the word 'thought' and it goes away) and not get involved with what your mind is doing then you'll find it a little easier. Also, don't expect too much at once. Try starting with just sitting for 5 minutes twice a day and then up the time. It really all begins and ends with prana (breath) so that is a good way to start. Others start by just being aware of the sounds going on around them without creating a story in their mind. Others find japa mala to be an easier way in to meditation. It just takes a while to calm a wild mind and all of us have them so just be patient and don't take it too seriously. Yoga is moving meditation. You could also try walking meditation. Everything is meditation if you are mindful and are fully involved with what is going on: meaning you are fully feeling, tasting, smelling etc etc Best to you. Having a good sense of humor and not expecting too much is the best way to approach it.
2007-07-22 08:51:06 · answer #1 · answered by Yogini 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have been practicing meditation for years, and for me, the goal is to clear my mind of all the mind-chatter. Focusing on a single object is a method for clearing your head, but it's not a requirement. If you feel your mind start to wander toward some mundane thing, interrupt and redirect your thoughts. At times, I will visualize sitting on a beach, watching the tide come in. If my mind wanders, I return to the beach. Realize, too, that you do not have to spend a full 30 minutes or an hour in a meditative state. I had to do baby steps. I began with 5 minutes and worked my way up.
2007-07-22 08:10:36 · answer #2 · answered by ? 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Meditation is a way that you clear you soul and mind of all impurity's and immoral thoughts and what not so focuses very hard in mediation and you see some results
2007-07-22 08:06:13 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
No kidding, I want to know too. My mind goes everywhere when I pray.
2007-07-22 08:03:23 · answer #4 · answered by Shinigami 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
become one with the candle ...
2007-07-22 08:02:27 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋