Amarjah's Musing -Myth, Mysticism & Meaning
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Meditation is a practice of becoming aware. There are many ways to practice meditation whose goal is to awaken us. Meditation may bring about transformation, through understanding, compassion, and clarity of seeing. Meditation practices may generally classified into two basic categories based on the focus.
First, in "concentration" practices, the practitioner focuses attention on a a single object. This may take the form of a mantra, a repetition ofmeaningful phrase or prayer over and over or a visual focus on a candle flame or sacred figure. Whenever the attention wanders from the object, the practitioner gently returns attention to the object. Some concentration practices may select as the sensation of the breath or the sensation of the body as it moves such as in walking meditation.
The second meditation practice emphasizes awareness or "mindfulness." Activities seek to develop and nourish present moment awareness. One must live in the NOW. These "mindfulness" practices are often described as "being, not doing." Mindfulness is considerate, open-hearted, choiceless, present moment awareness.
Mindfulness is the awareness that is not thinking (but is aware of thinking, seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, feeling). Mindfulness is non-judgmental and open. By intentionally practicing mindfulness, that is to pay attention without judgment to whatever arises in the present moment, either inside or outside of our personal being, one learns to live more fully and less on "automatic reactions." One becomes more present in life.
In Stillness, we find clarity.
Mindfulness during the day allows one to process the world with awareness.
- Waking Moment - as you awake, before doing anything else, take a few deep breaths.
- Showering - note the sensual warmth of the water on your skin, the scent of soaps, and the sound of flowing water.
- Meals - pay attention to the food, its growth in the sunshine, fresh air and rich earth. Honor those who planted, nurtured, harvested and transported it.
- Driving - at stops, relax your grip on the wheel. Drop your shoulders.
- Walking - pay attention to the scenery, the bird songs, the flowers blooming, and the feel beneath your feet.
- Alone time - make a passionate routine in your day to take a few minutes of alone time.
- End of day - reflect on the events of the day. Express gratitude or amends where need be. Notice your breath as you fall asleep. Sweet dreams.
Namasté
Experience awakening for yourself. Contact us today at amarjah@gmail.com.
Many circle the mountain examining the various paths without ever making the climb. We offer seminars, consultations, and support networks in the spiritual quest for awakening. We are not affiliated with organized religions as the truth is the same when viewed from the mountain summit regardless of the path to reach it.
Theevolution of consciousness has brought us here - to remind of us of who we are and our purpose here. We are seekers who embrace skepticism, acceptance and the strength in unity. We are greater than the sum of the parts in a greater spiritual work.
Namasté = the light of the divine within me honors the light of the divine within you.