Meditation - what it is to me
What meditation is to me: The definitions describing meditation that I like most are those which talk about meditation being the practice of becoming familiar with yourself; and the ability to be with yourself. I meditate to cultivate my ability to be with myself; to be able to stop, be still and pause… to be less impulsive and reactive and more deliberate and responsive.
I have discovered the contradictory ‘going slow to go fast’. It really is a thing! I continue to be astounded by how much more I get done, with such ease, from establishing a meditation practice and ways to be mindful throughout the day. This is more satisfying, for me, than being constantly pulled in different directions by my mind, or controlled, by it’s various whims. The whims of my mind can often take the form of cravings or desires for something else, distracting me from what I am doing, or from being with myself. My mind also likes to push me to avoid pain and discomfort of situations and emotions at the expense of tuning in to the messages my body has for me, and the opportunity these bring to grow. This is why I meditate.
For me, meditation is all about the concept of ‘being with’. I find the ability to ‘be with’ embodies true presence and mindfulness. To ‘be with’ yourself, to ‘be with another’, 'to ‘be with’ what is; there is an intrinsic sense of allowing, and accepting, rather than striving, and busying ourselves with other things. It’s about connecting, with yourself, with others, and with the world around you; a most fundamental human need. This ability comes from practicing meditation. This is why I meditate and am so passionate about showing people simple and achievable ways to start a practice.
There are many ways I meditate, but this is the essence of them all. Whether it is focusing on the breath, the senses, the body, or a contemplation, each requires the development of the mind to be with, and to stay with what is, in that moment. Of course the mind’s job is to think and you cannot stop the mind from thinking, however you can work to be not so caught up in the distractions of the mind. You also develop a new, and more harmonious, relationship with your thoughts. Through some simple practices you can experience a quieter mind, and a little more space in, and around you.
During COVID times we are running our Corporate Mindfulness Series via zoom ( 5 sessions each 45 minutes, exploring breath, senses, body and more). One on one mindfulness meditation sessions are also available via zoom.
Participants are reporting the sessions are practical and easy to take into their day; and are making a difference in the challenging times they are facing at the moment.
Along with Meditation courses, workshops & programs, we offer Individual Coaching in Mindfulness Meditation and Wellness at Corporate workplaces and by phone. Our weekly Yoga and Meditation classes are currently online, and ordinarily in Mentone, Bayside Melbourne.
Get in touch with Nicky to find out more.
nicky@flourishmindfully.com.au