Sitting meditation is an ancient and effective method of self-cultivation that is also referred to as “mindful sitting.” It was absorbed into and promoted by Confucianism as an indispensable way to develop the self. Since ancient times, meditation has been revered by celebrated figures and those with great compassion and aspiration. It is not only the secret to longevity, but also a key to spiritual realization.
What are the benefits of meditation?
The life-transforming benefits brought about by the consistent practice of meditation have made it popular with people of both ancient and modern times. Some of the benefits are as follows:
1. Replenish energy and improve health
Meditation can purify the body and mind, creating deep tranquility and lasting peace. The resulting purification and peace make it easier for practitioners to receive extraordinary energy from the Universe, which in turn clears blockages from the meridians and improves physical health. Therefore, through practicing meditation, many people no longer suffer from insomnia and feel relaxed, energetic and rejuvenated. Practitioners may experience a positive turnaround after years of suboptimal health, and some may even experience marked improvement in more serious conditions.
[Stories of Bodhi Meditation Students]
2. Purify the mind and increase wisdom
Reflections which appear in still water are clear and vivid; likewise, a calm mind gives rise to clarity and wisdom.
Most people experience constant mental chatter as they rush through the day trying to deal with an endless stream of tasks and challenges. Meditation can calm the distracted mind and clarify messy thoughts, just like turbid water becomes pure and clear after settling down. A settled mind can view complex matters from a broader perspective, and thus simple solutions to difficult challenges have greater potential to arise when one’s mentality is calm.
[Related Video: Purity, Peace and Energy]
3. Awaken compassion and elevate state of life
The purifying process of meditation can awaken the compassion deep inside the heart. Being in a state of compassion allows the energy of the Universe to continuously flow into the body. When a person is open to receiving Universal energy, they can experience incredible gains. Not only can they understand the Laws of Nature, they know how to apply compassion to all aspects of life, thereby building harmonious relationships and a successful career and contributing to the wellbeing of society.
[Related Video: Primary Principles of Meditation]
Sensations of sitting meditation
Sitting meditation may bring about extraordinary experiences in mind and body. A practitioner may get the sensation that their body or a certain part of their body is disappearing, or the feeling of rising up and floating in the air, or they may lose track of time. Seeing wonderful images, hearing beautiful sounds, smelling sweet fragrances, and tasting a sweet nectar are all possibilities during sitting meditation; the occurrence of these phenomena has been recorded over centuries. However, do bear in mind that each person’s experience of meditation is unique. It is normal to not encounter sensations or phenomena. Do not pursue such phenomena, nor use sensations as a measure of success in meditation.
For beginners, it is not easy to enter a deep meditative state and maintain concentration. Sometimes, drowsiness sets in. People who have practiced meditation for a long time often find it difficult to distinguish whether the scenes and phenomena they experience are real or illusionary. Regarding these images and feelings, no matter if they are pleasant or disturbing, don’t be attached to them. Just let them come and go naturally. As long as your mind is not disturbed or distracted by them, it is safe to continue meditating.
Five common beginner reactions to sitting meditation
When you first learn to meditate, you may experience a variety of normal reactions. Some reactions may be caused by external factors.
- Feeling hot and sweating
When meditating, people are in a relaxed state with fewer distracting thoughts, and their body and mind are in a process of purification. Therefore, it is easier to connect to the cosmic energy of the Universe and replenish one’s lifeforce. Once the energy in the body is enhanced, circulation will run smoothly; a boost in energy and circulation gives rise to increased heat and sweating. Toxins are discharged from the body through sweating.
- Pain, itching, soreness, and numbness
During sitting meditation, energy will help the body to clear blockages in the meridians. Some natural reactions will happen as a result, such as feeling soreness, swelling, numbness, pain, itching, etc. When these phenomena occur, try not to scratch or pat the affected area. It is best to ignore these reactions; usually, they will disappear after a while.
- Yawning, tearing up, runny nose
Some people will yawn, tear up, or experience a runny nose during sitting meditation. These reactions discharge the negative emotions or diseases accumulated in the body. Negativities are released through tears and nasal mucus.
- Dizziness and nausea
If you feel dizzy or drowsy during meditation, it’s most likely because the temperature in the meditation environment is too high or air circulation is poor. Therefore, before meditating, adjust the temperature and ventilation to create a cool, fresh meditation environment conducive to attaining better results.
5. Involuntary movement
If you follow the correct way to meditate, your body and mind will become more composed and calmer. If the body is swaying or shaking involuntarily during meditation, it is probably due to using an improper method. If you experience involuntary movement, open your eyes and remind yourself to relax and focus. Consider seeking professional meditation guidance from a formal meditation organization.
[Related video: When Our Body is Spinning During Chanting]
What should we pay attention to when learning sitting meditation?
Although many beginners are keen on meditation, they do not know much about it, which greatly reduces the potential positive effects. Some fail to realize the purpose of self-cultivation and even create negative results due to using incorrect meditation methods. Therefore, it is especially important to seek professional meditation guidance when learning sitting meditation.
Seek professional guidance| Bodhi Meditation
Bodhi Meditation is an international meditation organization founded by Grandmaster JinBodhi. Focused on traditional meditation, the organization introduces easy-to-learn, simple-to-practice and effective meditation methods that address the diverse needs of modern people. These practices include The Meditation of Purity and The Meditation of Bone Melting, which help guide the meditator to reach a state of compassion and purity through peaceful visualization.
People who want to learn meditation can get comprehensive guidance and teachings at Bodhi Meditation. Contact us through the following:
- Follow Grandmaster JinBodhi’s Facebook page and subscribe to Grandmaster JinBodhi’s YouTube channel to watch relevant teaching videos. Get the latest information and participate in online courses.
- Go to the Cibeiyin online store to download or purchase educational CDs.
- Sign up for courses at your local Bodhi Meditation Center to receive professional guidance and feel the beauty of meditation.
Further reading:
Learn the way of meditation | Improve your quality of life, elevate your mental state
Easy-to-learn meditation | Understanding the do’s and don’ts
