Adam Dreisler
Buddhist Psychology
Meditation is a practice that involves training the mind and inducing a state of consciousness that fosters relaxation, concentration, clarity, and emotional well-being. It has been practiced for thousands of years in various cultures and spiritual traditions around the world.
While there are many different forms of meditation, they generally share some common elements:
Focused attention:
This involves concentrating the mind on a single object, such as the breath, a mantra, a visual image, or a sensation in the body. Focused attention helps to calm the mind and develop concentration.
Mindfulness:
Mindfulness meditation involves observing thoughts, emotions, sensations, and perceptions without judgment. It cultivates present-moment awareness and acceptance of whatever arises in the mind and body.
Open awareness:
Also known as choiceless awareness or non-directive meditation, this approach involves simply observing the flow of experience without trying to control or manipulate it. It fosters a sense of spaciousness and non-attachment to mental phenomena.
Movement-based practices:
Some forms of meditation involve gentle movement or specific body postures, such as yoga, Tai Chi, or Qigong. These practices combine physical movement with breath awareness and mental focus.
Meditation can be practiced sitting, standing, walking, or lying down, and it can be done individually or in groups. It can be a secular practice or integrated into religious or spiritual traditions. Many people practice meditation for various reasons, including stress reduction, relaxation, improved concentration, emotional regulation, spiritual growth, and self-discovery.
Scientific research has shown that meditation can have numerous benefits for mental and physical health. These may include reduced stress, anxiety, and depression; improved attention and concentration; enhanced emotional well-being and resilience; lowered blood pressure; and improved immune function. Overall, meditation is a versatile and accessible practice that can be adapted to suit individual preferences and needs. With regular practice, it can become a valuable tool for promoting overall well-being and inner peace.
I offer meditation lessons and guidance into the world of dharma studies and retreats based on experience since 1994.