Recently, I've been grappling with feelings of anxiety and frustration during my meditation sessions. Unlike a few weeks ago when I could effortlessly enter a meditative state and connect deeply with my body, my practice has become more challenging. I would close my eyes, expecting to experience transcendental moments, yet lately, that hasn't been the case.
During a meditation session today, I encountered a profound realization. It felt more like an intuitive understanding than a mere thought: there are countless ways and reasons to meditate. I recognized that if I simply relax, my body will guide me to the most suitable type of meditation for that moment.
Section 1.1: Different Approaches to Meditation
One approach is the one advocated by Joe Dispenza, which involves transcending both mind and body to enter an entirely different dimension—one free from identity and location. This style aims to help you manifest your desires. By aligning your energy with your intentions, you may bring those aspirations to fruition. This is the method I had been practicing in recent weeks, and it had yielded positive results, including alleviating menstrual discomfort. However, I've found it more challenging lately.
Another method is described by Glennon Doyle, focusing on stillness and reconnecting with one’s intuition. It's a practice that encourages awareness of our bodies and inner wisdom—something many of us have lost touch with.
Additionally, there’s Vipassana meditation, which I studied during a ten-day silent retreat. This technique teaches the impermanence of thoughts, feelings, and sensations, encouraging practitioners to observe them without attachment.
Transcendental meditation is another style, one I’m not well-versed in but involves silently repeating a personal mantra to foster a state of restful alertness.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Right Way to Meditate
The key takeaway is that various meditation techniques may resonate differently depending on the day or even the moment. I found myself frustrated, clinging to one particular style. When I struggled to access that method, I felt inadequate. However, today I realized that perhaps I wasn't meant to engage in that specific practice; instead, I needed to simply be still and tune into my internal signals to determine the right meditation for me.
As I embraced this approach, my body instructed me to focus on my physical sensations—paying attention to every twitch and the rhythm of my pulse. This shift brought me a sense of tranquility.
Section 1.2: Embracing Flexibility in Practice
Some days, meditation may require more time, while on others, it may be brief. I've learned that there's no definitive 'right' or 'wrong' way to meditate. A few weeks ago, I noticed it often took me around 40 minutes to enter a deeper state of transcendence, leading me to believe I needed to meditate for a full hour each time. This pressure only added to my anxiety.
Today, after achieving that sense of calm, I remained in that state for as long as it felt right, which turned out to be just 20 minutes. I recognized that this duration was perfectly sufficient.
I also discovered that the traditional lotus position with a straight back wasn't always what my body desired. At times, lying flat on my back felt more restorative, while at other times, it risked dozing off—counterproductive to my meditation goals.
Chapter 2: Finding Your Optimal Meditation Times
Moreover, I've realized that the timing of meditation can vary in effectiveness throughout the day. I had been forcing myself to meditate first thing in the morning, even before sunrise, as some claim this is ideal for transcendental experiences due to optimal brain wave conditions.
However, today I chose to meditate at noon. I settled onto my bed, basking in the sunlight streaming through the open shades. I discovered that I thrive in natural light—it warms me and enhances my sense of presence.
Ultimately, the 'right' way to meditate is the one that resonates with you at any given moment. Whether your goal is to soothe your nervous system, connect with your intuition, or manifest your dreams, the essence lies in discovering what works best for you.
If you're facing challenges in your meditation journey, consider exploring different methods, positions, or times of day. Instead of confining yourself to one specific approach, allow your body and mind to guide you toward what you need. You might uncover new techniques that work even more effectively!