4 myths about meditation

Today we will look at what meditation is NOT, and will help us debunk common myths about meditation practice, Dr. Deepaak Chopra, a member of the American College of Physicians and the US Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. Dr. Chopra has written more than 65 books, founded the Center for Well-Being. Chopra in California, he has worked with celebrities such as George Harrison, Elizabeth Taylor, Oprah Winfrey. Myth #1. Meditation is difficult. The root of this misconception lies in the stereotypical view of the practice of meditation as the prerogative of holy people, monks, yogis or hermits in the Himalayan mountains. As with anything, meditation is best learned from an experienced, knowledgeable teacher. However, beginners may start by simply focusing on the breath or silently repeating mantras. Such a practice can already bring results. A person starting meditation practice is often too attached to the result, sets high expectations and overdoes it, trying to concentrate. Myth #2. To successfully meditate, you need to completely quiet your mind. Another common misconception. Meditation is not about intentionally getting rid of thoughts and emptying the mind. Such an approach will only create stress and increase the “inner chatter”. We cannot stop our thoughts, but it is in our power to control the attention given to them. Through meditation we can find the silence that already exists in the space between our thoughts. This space is what it is – pure awareness, silence and calmness. Be sure that even if you feel the constant presence of thoughts by meditating regularly, you still get benefits from the practice. Over time, observing yourself in the process of practice as if “from the outside”, you will begin to be aware of the presence of thoughts and this is the first step towards their control. From that moment on, your focus shifts from the inner ego to awareness. By becoming less identified with your thoughts, your history, you open up a larger world and new possibilities. Myth #3. It takes years of practice to achieve tangible results. Meditation has both immediate and long-term effects. Repeated scientific studies testify to the significant impact of meditation on the physiology of the body and mind already within a few weeks of practice. At the Deepaak Chopra Center, beginners report improved sleep after a few days of practice. Other benefits include improved concentration, reduced blood pressure, reduced stress and anxiety, and increased immune function. Myth number 4. Meditation presupposes a certain religious basis. The truth is that meditative practice does not imply the need to believe in a religion, sect, or any spiritual teaching. Many people practice meditation, being atheists or agnostics, coming to inner peace, improving physical and mental well-being. Someone comes to meditation even with the goal of quitting smoking.

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