May 21st is World Meditation Day, and comes just after Mental Health Awareness Week draws to a close.
It is also during a month when Yoga Borne have been offering the FREE experience of “Meditate Through May” via Yoga Borne YouTube.
Every day in May we have uploaded a new meditation to our YouTube channel.
All offerings on Yoga Borne YouTube are completely FREE, and a real passion project of mine, as part of spreading holistic Yoga far and wide, and being as accessible and inclusive as possible.
Just click the link below to head over to our YouTube channel, and start or continue your holistic Yoga and wellbeing journey.
What is Meditation?
Meditation is a practice where an individual uses a technique, such as mindfulness, focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity, to train attention and awareness, and achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state.
It has roots in ancient traditions but is widely practiced in modern contexts for its numerous mental and physical benefits.
History of Meditation
The practice of meditation dates back thousands of years and spans various cultures and religions. Some key historical milestones include:
Ancient India: The earliest references to meditation are found in the Hindu texts known as the Vedas. Techniques like Dhyana (concentration) were developed and refined in the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Buddhism: Buddhism extensively incorporates meditation practices, including Vipassana (insight) and Samatha (tranquillity).
Daoism: In ancient China, Daoist meditation practices emphasised harmony with nature and the Dao / Taoism.
Western Practices: Meditation reached the West and has been adapted into secular forms and integrated into psychology and wellness practices.
Different Types of Meditation
Meditation encompasses a wide range of styles and techniques.
Some of the most well-known include:
Mindfulness Meditation: Originating from Buddhist practices, it involves paying attention to thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. This is often practiced through techniques like mindful breathing.
Transcendental Meditation: A technique which involves silently repeating a mantra to settle the mind into a state of restful alertness.
Loving-Kindness Meditation (Metta): Focuses on cultivating an attitude of love and compassion towards oneself and others.
Zen Meditation (Zazen): A practice from Zen Buddhism that involves seated meditation, focusing on the breath and observing thoughts without attachment.
Guided Meditation: Involves listening to a guide or instructor who leads the meditation, often incorporating visualization techniques.
Yoga Nidra: Also known as yogic sleep, it is a form of guided meditation that induces deep relaxation.
Who is Meditation For?
Meditation is accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background, or belief system.
We hope that “Meditate Through May” can show you that meditation is a part of Yoga that is accessible and inclusive to everyone and every-body.
Mindfulness and meditation practices are not always taught as part of a Yoga class, as “Asana” (the movement part), tends to be a bigger focus in the West.
However at Yoga Borne we believe in a well rounded, holistic (whole) approach, and want to show how the rich tapestry of Yoga can be incorporated into our classes and your lives!
Meditation can be particularly beneficial for:
Individuals seeking stress relief: Meditation helps reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation.
Those looking to improve focus and concentration: Regular practice can enhance cognitive functions.
People with mental health concerns: It can support emotional health and is often used in conjunction with other treatments for conditions like depression and PTSD.
Individuals on a spiritual path: Many use meditation as a means to explore and deepen their spiritual life.
Anyone aiming for personal growth: Meditation fosters self-awareness and personal development.
What Are the Benefits of Meditation?
The benefits of meditation are well-documented and include:
Mental Health: Reduces symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD; improves emotional health by fostering a positive outlook and emotional resilience.
Physical Health: Lowers blood pressure, reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and can alleviate chronic pain.
Cognitive Function: Enhances concentration, attention, and memory; promotes better decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Emotional Regulation: Helps manage stress, increases self-awareness, and fosters compassion and empathy.
Overall Well-being: Contributes to a sense of inner peace and balance, helping to improve our overall quality of life!
On World Meditation Day, we want to take a moment to honour and celebrate this ancient practice that continues to offer profound benefits in our modern lives.
Whether you are new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, take a moment today to explore the peace and clarity that meditation can bring.
Meditation Classes at Yoga Borne
Monday (bi-weekly) 8pm - Mindful Meditation (online live via Zoom)
Thursday (weekly) 8pm - Yoga Nidra (online live via Zoom)
Our public classes all offer some exploration into mindfulness and meditation. Especially Pregnancy Yoga, RELAX on a Wednesday and Friday evening, SLOW FLOW on Wednesday evening, and FLOW on Sunday morning.
