JAINA Convention 2003 07 Cincinnati OH

SR No.: 527526
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA
Publication Year: 2003
Total Pages: 156
Language: English
Classification: Magazine, USA_Convention JAINA, & USA
File Size: 7 MB

Page 138

BENEFITS OF MEDITATION
Anonymous
Meditation is the natural process of with- or any other pleasant word that is agreeable to drawing attention from environmental, physical, you. When you exhale, feel happy and peaceful. and mental processes and consciously directing it Feel the sound of the mantra spontaneously inward to a chosen focus of attention. But not emerging into your mind and awareness. many people know how to practice meditation
Continue this procedure without any anxiety for personal benefit and spiritual growth.
about the results of practice. When a state of The primary purpose of meditation is to mental calmness is experienced, disregard your bring forth clear states of awareness that will breathing, listening only to the mantra. make authentic spiritual growth easier to experi- Eventually, allow even the mantra to fade away ence. Cultivation of inner contentment prevents and rest in a state of mental peace and clarity of us from getting swept away by circumstances. awareness for a while, until you feel inclined to Engaging in self-examination and self-discipline conclude the session. is important in order to clear away any of the psy
For optimum results, meditate once or twice chological conflicts that might pose a problem.
a day. Do this for at least 30 days before trying to Study of lower' or secular knowledge helps us evaluate the results. When you are proficient in function effectively in the world. Many ger edu- the practice of meditation, you could extend the cated so that they can live more effectively. But session by calmly contemplating the essence of also important is the acquisition of higher knowl- your being - your true Self - and your relationedge or metaphysics to inquire about God, cos- ship with the Infinite. Or you may just sit longer mic mind, manifestation of universes, our rela- in that calm state until you feel fulfilled. tionship with God – why are we here, and for
When engaged in daily activities and relawhat purpose? Then the formal practice of med
tionships endeavor to maintain a state of mental itation begins.
calmness and self-awareness. Cultivate cheerfulFirst, decide to practice meditation for at ness and optimism. Maintain your emotional balleast 30 minutes a day. Sit upright in a comfort- ance. Adhere to wholesome routines of activity able chair or assume a cross-legged posture on the and rest. Maintain a healthy lifestyle; choose a floor. Hold your head erect, with attention flow- nutritious diet and exercise regularly. Let all of ing into the area situated in the front region of your thoughts, feelings, and actions be wholethe brain, which is related to creativity, will some and constructive. You will then be empowpower, and discernment.
ered to live enjoyably, effectively, and successfully. Next, inhale and exhale deeply once or twice to elicit physical relaxation. Remain still for a few Benefits of Meditation minutes until you feel a calm poised. If you have
Meditation is an ocean and its benefits will a devotional temperament, invoke the presence depend on the regularity and continuity you and blessings of God or your favorite deity or maintain, and on the depths to which you plumb object of worship. If you have a guru, reveren- in each practical session. The power of meditatially acknowledge him or her. Make a conscious tion is in its experience. effort to be aware of your natural breathing
Meditation is not to be considered as an rhythm. When inhalation occurs, mentally recite
option in life. Whatever your age, vocation, or a chosen word or mantra such as God, peace, joy,
role in life, meditation must become a mandato
136 Jain Education Interational 2010_03 For Private & Personal Use Only