Thank you very much for your answer on my experience (verge of samadhi) and on my letter about feeling hate and guilt (detoxification).
Your help is always very great for my motivation and courage to keep meditating and see life in a more spiritual way.
When we heal ourselves through meditation, will we also be able to heal others? Maybe by being present with them? I have a private life and a job where I enjoy being with other people ... and some of them could use some healing (I think we all could use some healing to some degree).
When you meditate regularly, you do become a clearer instrument for the healing light to come through you. Consequently, your presence will have a natural, gentle healing effect on others. I am not speaking of dramatic miracle healings (although anything is possible). I am speaking of radiating more of the healing life force, which has a subtly uplifting and therapeutic effect on those around you, both physically and emotionally.
However, if you choose, you can learn certain methods which you can use to concentrate and direct this energy for the specific purpose of healing others.
I'm 16 and i've decided i want to start meditating to have better control of myself and my mind but i'm curious and unsure of a lot of things regarding meditation. I tried it yesterday and i found my eyes started to twitch and try open themselves which i found frightening and stopped because of it i was wonder is that normal? Once i stopped i had a very sharp pain in the center of my forehead for a while and i was wondering is this too normal? I also seem to have problems visualizing during meditation like if they tell me to imagine a stairs i can't or if i can i can't hold the image for very long. I also them was on forums and heard of people seeing demons and i'm frightened as i don't want to be possessed. I want to meditate to contact my guardian angle as well but i'm afraid i'll end up seeing a demon. I understand that this is a religious thing but since i saw it mentioned on several forums about meditation it didn't seem to bee to unusual. I want to become a better person and find inner peace and allow myself to become my personal best but i'm quite frightened of the journey ahead as it seems so uncertain and unclear. How do i know meditation is for me? Will it make me lose touch with my spirituality (in a religious sense) i'm not overly religious but i do pray and believe in God and i'm afraid this will be going against God in some way or make me lose touch with him and my previous form of prayer. My apologies for the long question its just i'm very unsure of a lot of things and i can't seem to get straight answers anywhere. And last but i guess most importantly i don't really know how to meditate, since on the internet there is guided and just music and then chanting or pure silence and then types for chakras or healing or contacting spirit guides so i don't really know which type is for me.tips or ways would be good maybe their is a certain way for beginners or something? Thanks in advance
Hello Molly... That is a lot of questions, isn't it? :-) I'll try to touch on as many as I can.
First, meditation is very safe if you follow the simple guidelines that you'll find on these 3 pages. • General Info (just the "General Guidelines for Meditation" section)
• FAQs Room (just the "Frequently Asked Questions" section)
With meditation it's best to keep it simple, so here is a very simple meditation that you can use to get started. Just follow the narrative on the video, and accept whatever happens. • Mindfulness Meditation Mindfulness Meditation
The twitching in your eyes and the sensations in your head were caused by an increased flow of your inner spiritual energy, which is ok and natural and nothing to worry about. However, you will be less likely to experience any uncomfortable sensations if are not trying too hard to concentrate.
One of the great things about meditation is that you do not have to be good at it to get results. Yes, with time and experience it will become easier to stay focussed and to imagine things like your guardian angel. But the only thing really necessary to get results is simply doing it regularly - about 15 minutes daily if possible.
Will meditation cause you to lose touch with your spirituality? No... meditation helps people deepen their spirituality. It is also likely that it will help you understand your own religion more deeply. You might say that we were given this simple exercise of meditation to help us reconnect with that infinite spirit we call God.
How can you know if meditation is for you? The only way you can know that is to try it... not just for a day or two, but for a long enough time to start seeing the positive results in your life. Some results become noticeable fairly quickly, but generally the profound growth brought about by meditation happens gradually.
Do we need intructor to learn meditation? I have try to pratice meditation but not successful. My mind cannot relax and get lazy. what is the method and time for us to meditate? Please advice. Thank you very much.
Hello Mabel... One of the most important things to understand about meditation is that there is no such thing as "successful" or "unsuccessful" meditation. Simply "doing it" will produce results - some fairly quickly, and some more gradually.
It is helpful to have an instructor, but it is not absolutely necessary. I've created the Online Meditation Center so that people can easily learn to meditate when there is no instructor available. To get started, I suggest you first read these 3 pages:
• General Info (just the "General Guidelines for Meditation" section)
When you sit to meditate, I suggest you put aside all expectations about what is "supposed to" happen... and simply accept whatever does happen. It doesn't take much effort. Just go through the steps with medium effort and let the relaxation happen on its own.
Hı Jım I am practıcıng breath awareness medıtatıon. Lately, the act of 'swallowıng' has become a bıt dısturbıng. Sometımes I am not aware of ıt, and I swallow automatıcly.The problem ıs that often I do not do ıt automatıcly, but I become conscıously aware of the 'need to swallow'. I try to pay no attentıon to ıt, but ıt´s not always workıng.
1, Should I swallow whenever I feel the need?(Thıs could lead to too frequent swallowıng)
2, Or should I resıst the 'need to swallow'(only a lıttle), and when ıt becomes a bıt uncomfortable, do the swallowıng? (Thıs way I mıght be able to avoıd too frequent swallowıng) Thıs ıs the same approach, whıch I use when my body ıs ıchıng somewhere. I resıst ıt a lıttle, and when ıt becomes unconfortable, I scratch ıt lıghtly.
Whıch of the 2 above ıs better, ıf I want to cultıvate a calm/deep medıtatıve state.
I suggest you treat the need to swallow like anything else that is other than your breath... thoughts, sensations, etc. Try not to think of it as a distraction. Instead, give it the space to be there, and whenever you feel the need to swallow, do it mindfully and then come back to your breathing.
Dear Jim, I would love to learn methods for directing the life force for the purpose of healing others. And I'm also very happy to hear, that when healing ourselves through meditation, we will also radiate the healing energy more.
I have searched some of the web to see if there is any similarities in the descriptions of methods. And many places tell about the hand chakras and how to open them by visualising light in the palms and also feel the warmth there. A few places have deepened this by saying that one should receive universal light through the crown chakra, letting it be intensified through the heart chakra, then sending this energy out through the arms down to the hands - and then place the hands above the crown chakra on him or her, that we want to heal.
I'm working with children, and I would LOVE to learn to concentrate the healing force for the purpose of helping some of those children. But also in general I would be glad to learn.
Do you have any comments or words that can point me in a direction?
Hello Thomas... There are numerous techniques for directing the healing force. If the intention is good, and the individual using the method is a reasonably clear channel, then most any of them can be effective. On this page you can find a very simple, fundamental method for directing healing energy. Energy Healing
One of the most accessible energy healing methods is "Reiki." If you wish to explore it, there are teachers practically everywhere.
i wrote the previous post about swallowing if i understand your words correctly, whenever i feel the need to swallow, i dont have to resist itt (not even for a little time) and i can swallow consciously when i feel the need. In addition, it is not a problem, if i swallow a bit too often.
I would like to ask a question concerning distractions during meditation.
I am practicing breath awareness. Sometimes during the session, I experience various sensations like iching or I just feel the need to move my arms or legs a bit.
I use the following approach to deal with such distractions:
For instance, when some part of my body is iching, I do not react to it right away. I wait a little, and if the sensation remains or becomes unconfortable, I scratch it lightly.
I am doing this because if I were to react to every small sensation immediately it could lead to a stage when my subconscious would plague my meditation with small disrtactions frequently, and I would be moving and fidgeting constantly during the session which would prevent me from staying in meditative state.
Thats why I wait a little (only a little and I do it with minimal effort) and if the sensation remains or becomes stronger only then I react to it.
Dear Jim and the anonymous who talked about swallowing,
I have had this problem too. It lasted only a few days, but it was really much swallowing - non-stop! I think it was a minor road block of "Oh no, what can possibly disturb my meditation??". But - as said - soon it passed ... :-) So, the best to you and your meditation practice.
I have meditating for about 6 months, at least one hour a day. For the past 3 weeks, my head has been feeling very tight. It feels like someone put pressure on the top of my head, or I am wearing a tight helmet, or sometimes someone is pulling my hair up, or something is running inside of my upper head, sometime I feel very my head is stuffed. I feel this all the time except I am asleep. What is it?
Your meditation is causing more energy to flow through the energy circuits in your head than those circuits can handle. I suggest you decrease your meditation time to 20 minutes a day - max. The pressure should subside in a few days to a week.
If it does not, feel free to get back to me with a clear description of the meditation method you are using and the degree of effort you are putting forth to concentrate.
• I recently started meditating, but I find it hard to do without listening to music like the Solfeggio Arpeggio or other meditation music on you tube, so to reach the perfect meditation, does it have to be in silence, or can I do it listening to whatever music I see applicable?
• Does meditation have any dangers?
• Is meditation a way to reach astral projection?
• Can meditation stages be achieved with dancing to meditation music?
Q. I recently started meditating, but I find it hard to do without listening to music like the Solfeggio Arpeggio or other meditation music on you tube, so to reach the perfect meditation, does it have to be in silence, or can I do it listening to whatever music I see applicable?
A. First, it's important to understand that there is no such thing as "perfect meditation." If you find that music enhances your meditation, then it's fine to have some quiet music in the background. However, using music to drown out thoughts is not helpful for meditation.
Q. Does meditation have any dangers?
A. Over-meditating can trigger some uncomfortable symptoms. For most individuals, 20 minutes once a day, or about 15 minutes twice a day is a good, safe time-frame. Other than that, if you follow some standard, sensible guidelines meditation is quite safe.
Q. Is meditation a way to reach astral projection?
A. It can be used for that, but that's not really one of the main purposes of meditation.
Q. Can meditation stages be achieved with dancing to meditation music?
A. You can achieve some elevated states in this way, but it generally dis-allows one from going deep within.
I've just read my first book on meditation and it gives the clear impression that one must believe in life after death and reincarnation in order to benefit from the practice of meditation. Is this true?
Hello sir! Would you advice on any mudras during meditation? Is gyan "better" than dhyan, or is there some sort of differences or relationship between different mudras to be conscious about?
There is really no single mudra that is right or best for all individuals at all times. Therefore, I suggest you go with what feels most natural and effective at any given time.
You might consider it an exercise in tuning in to your intuition and the subtle energy flows which mudras affect. Just trust your feeling, and release any concerns about the results or getting it right.
It's me the EFT follow again. I was hoping to could asnwer a question for me, I ask you becaues your the only one I know who will give a strait honest answer without trying to sell something.
anyway, i've been tapping on a issue about letting go and forgiveing a person who i felt betrayed by. I've been tapping so much when my mind brings up some of those thoughts no pain or hurt comes up at all.
however, there are other issues that come up and they hurt as well. I feel like I'm stumbling and rolling back down the hill when this happens. I'm not sure if it's just the eft is digging up a deeper problem or what.
also, do you know who to use eft in install more positive beleives? I'm especially trying to tapp on leting go and detaching from the worry and fear on things that my mind wants to bring up at random.
Your feeling is most likely correct that you are "digging up a deeper problem." We generally have many layers of issues buried in our psyches, so the clearing process involves peeling away all these various layers. Not usually much fun, but a very positive thing, so it's good that you are willing to go on that healing journey.
I can't give you any tapping tips for instilling positive beliefs, but I expect you can find some on the various EFT sites or forums.
I have been practicing mindfullness of the breath for a while and I am not sure about something relating to the way you observe the breath.
During the session, I focus on the sensations caused by the breath around the abdomen (I find it more natural for me to observe this particular area than to follow the whole course of the breath). While focusing on this spot, I am aware of 2 kinds of sensations:
1, Those which are directly caused by the breath as it enters/leaves my body (the rise and fall of my abdomen, the pressure of the air, ...).
2, I am also aware of the sensation of the clothes touching my skin (especially during inbreath when my abdomen rises).
During the exercise, I only focus on the sensations directly caused by the breath(1,), and do not pay attention to the sensations caused by my clothes. However, because both kinds of sensations occur at (nearly) the same place, I am also aware to a certain degree of the sensations caused by my clothes. (I am not focusing on them. I just stay aware of them because of their close proximity)
Is it all right if I meditate the above mentioned way? (After all if you follow the whole course of the breath, you also do not focus on the sensation caused by your clothes.)
Is it all right if I remain aware of the sensation caused by my clothes? (I am not focusing on them. I just stay aware of them because of their close proximity)
Yes... that's fine. One aspect of Mindfulness Meditation is the expansion of awareness. So as you continue to practice, even though the breath may remain your primary object of focus, your awareness will gradually expand to encompass all that is in your sphere.
I wrote the previous comment During the breath awareness meditation, i focus on the sensations caused by the breath in my abdomen. I focus only on the sensations caused directly by the movement of the air(the rise and fall of the abdomen, the pressure of the air ...). Sometimes i feel a little pain or strain in this area during each inbreath.
Is it allright if i focus onthis pain just as i focus on the "rise and fall of the abdomen"? (after all this little pain is also caused by the breath) I disreagard only those sensations which are not caused directly by the breath, like the feeling of my clothes, or some other kind of sensation around my abdomen (i stay aware of them but do not focus on them because they are not directly caused by the breath) thanks for answering your site is great help for those who does not have their own meditation teacher
Yes, it's fine to focus on this. When making these choices, you might ask yourself, "What am I trying to accomplish through my meditation?"
If your main goal is relaxation and stress reduction, then focussing on anything related to your breathing will be sufficient. However, if you are attempting to expand your awareness and become more mindful, then widening your focus - as your current question describes - can be helpful.
"...Yes, it's fine to focus on this. When making these choices, you might ask yourself, "What am I trying to accomplish through my meditation?..."
My aim is to reach a calm and reasonably deep meditative state.
I am focusing only on those sensations which are caused directly by the breath (The rise and fall of my abdomen, the pause between the breaths, the little strain caused by the pressure of the air. I might be aware of other sensations as well, but I do not focus on these (I simply accept their presence). Is it possible to reach a deeper meditative state this way?
Yes, you can experience calm and deep states in this way. However, because there are so many factors effecting each meditation session, you are likely to discover that - regardless of your approach - the depth of your meditations will vary from day to day.
"If your main goal is relaxation and stress reduction, then focussing on anything related to your breathing will be sufficient. However, if you are attempting to expand your awareness and become more mindful, then widening your focus - as your current question describes - can be helpful."
...Then I get confused: I am doing breath meditation. But will this "only" lead to relaxation, not spiritual awakening?
Not at all. That answer was referring to a specific dynamic of training the mind. Virtually any "traditional" form of meditation can lead to spiritual awakening.
My question relates to Mindfulness meditation. We are told to observe the breath and if the mind wanders, to concentrate on the breath the return to the relaxed state. Does this mean that we never meditate on a specific subject or emotion, thought or feeling as they arise in the mind. Or are we always only concentrating on the breath throughout our meditation studies.
Hello Terry... It is not an absolute rule that focussing on the breath is the only way to practice Mindfulness Meditation. The breath just happens to be an easy and effective place to begin.
You might stay with the breath, or you might find your focus changing at times, to one of the things you mentioned... especially if you intuitively feel it would be beneficial in some way.
Or you may, over time, notice your focus expanding to encompass all of these... breath, thoughts, and feelings.
It might help to look at the bigger picture, regarding two of the primary purposes of Mindfulness Meditation (aside from relaxation).
1. Mindfulness trains you to develop a calm, non-judging awareness with which to be fully present with - but not enmeshed in - whatever is going on in the moment.
2. With continued practice, you discover that the calm awareness with which you perceive your breath, thoughts, etc., is in itself the core of your being... your innermost essence.
Given that, there is much room for flexibility with the method as your practice deepens.
Many thanks for your very clear answer that had been bothering me for a while. Could I also ask, if we do not meditate on specific thoughs or feelings, how then do we deal with negative emotions like anger,fear and depression that we are trying to eliminate.
If you could recommend a book that deals with such a subject I would be very grateful.
Hello Terry... This is a good example, regarding one of the suggestions from my answer to your previous question: "...you might find your focus changing at times, to one of the things you mentioned... especially if you intuitively feel it would be beneficial in some way."
When a negative emotion, memory, etc. is ready to be healed/resolved, it will come up during your meditation and sort of get in your face. When this occurs, you will know that focussing your "neutral attention" on it is what is needed for the healing to occur.
Here are some books you might check out: "A Gradual Awakening" by Stephen Levine and "Wherever You Go There You Are" by Jon Kabat Zinn.
I don't recall if they deal directly with this exact subject, but I think they will shed some light in it for you.
It is not nesessary to refrain from thinking about what you are trying to let go of, and not likely that you would be able to totally and willfully put it out of your mind anyway. What is important in this process is not allowing your mind to cling to it.
One thing I suggest is that you take a little time in meditation to simply observe how your mind works with whatever you are trying to let go of. Just watch how it comes into your mind... how it grabs your attention... and how your mind can hold onto it, gnawing on it like a dog with a bone.
Once you are familiar with how your mind works with such thoughts, it is easier to take specific steps to let go. Here are some suggestions for doing this:
• You can re-direct your attention to something else - something equally or more "fascinating" - for your mind to dwell on.
• You can imagine your mind as an energy field - which it is - then breathe and gently expand the energy so that the unwelcome thoughts can flow on through.
• If it is based on a particular situation, you can turn the situation over to a "higher intelligence" - your Higher Self, Universal Mind, or whatever - and trust that it will be worked out.
The ability to let go of thoughts which the mind is clinging to, not only reduces the stress level greatly, but is an important step on the path of awakening.
thanks for your response JIm. I recently got this book called "inner game of tennis"
the author talks about the zen of playing tennis. letting go and getting the ego out of the way by focusing on the present moment by breathing or focusing on the ball or something else.
having the intention to do what your doing and trusting your subconcious mind to carry it out for you.
is it possible to live in a contant state of present moment awareness tha tgets our ego to try trying to control us? I mean I know our ego is important and has a purpose, I just enjoy the feeling of living without my ego nagging me, it's like I have a totally new out look of life.
Yes, it is most certainly possible. Living in a state of being fully present, beyond ego, is one of the primary goals of the spiritual journey. This generally unfolds gradually, and when the ego has fulfilled its purpose, it then falls away like a snake shedding its skin.
I have been meditating now for about a fortnight i did start 8 months ago but found i didnt find time now i have stuck to it the longest i have meditated for in one session is 1 hour 45 minutes i find it has helped with my stress which was very high but now i feel a calm with in me that a diazapam could never do.I hope i can find your cd over here which is wales briton
Hi jim I just want to say how helpful meditating has been for me as i have has emotional break downs and suffer bad stress but since i have been doing this i have found a great calm and my brain has slowed down so much my thinkin is more clear and see things in there rite perspective i feel great.I am so glad i came accross this site.I meditate now for 1 hour 45 mins and love it thanks jim. take care dai from south wales briton
Hello Daio... I'm happy to hear how beneficial meditation has been for you. I appreciate your good feedback... thanks. Feel free to keep me updated on how your practice is going.
Thank you for all of the wonderful information you have provided through your website. I am hoping you have an answer to a question I have had for many years.
When my body is fully relaxed, I am able to will myself to relax further into a kind of "active relaxation." This causes a feeling of vertigo most strongly felt in my limbs. The feeling is very intense and can only be maintained for a few moments at a time, but can be repeated over and over. The depth of intensity is easy to control. The feeling has a negative aspect to it that is like my body becoming too sensitive. I can do this at will any time as long as I am not flexing the muscles. This is something I have been able to do since I was a child. When meditating, which I have only been doing for three weeks, this "active relaxation" greatly deepens the state of meditation and brings on the shaking that is described throughout your website. Do you know what this active relaxation might be?
Hello Doug... Your experience is the result of inadvertently focussing on your vital-etheric body. This body is composed of a subtler energy than your physical body, and provides the energy template for your physical body, as well as the network of channels through which the vital force - or chi - flows in order to enliven your body.
Focussing on this subtle body tends to stimulate it, creating a kind of internal heat, which can lead to certain imbalances in your energy system and its natural healthy flow of vital energy. For that reason, I suggest you discontinue this practice.
Most often when I envision someone meditating, they have their legs crossed with a foot on top of each knee, and both hands resting on each knee facing up. Is there a particular reason for meditating in that position?
Yes... One reason is that the "lotus position" - which is what you are describing - helps one keep the posture straight without leaning on anything, thus allowing the spiritual energy to flow freely through the spine.
Another reason for this somewhat austere position is to help one develop a degree of mastery over the body, if one is meditating primarily as a spiritual discipline.
There are various possible hand positions - aka mudras - and the one you are describing represents a receptivity to the cosmic energies.
You can try sitting in the lotus position if you wish - and if you are young :) - but having done it myself early on in my meditation practice, I've found that what little advantage you gain isn't worth the pain. Consequently, for most people, I recommend sitting comfortably, while still keeping the spine reasonably straight.
Hi there found your web site and like its feel and thank you for having a place where you dont have to log in to ask questions. I am a beginner and as such have all sorts of questions. So here goes with a couple to start with 1) sometimes I seem to be meditating ie some thoughts running through my mind and also brief moments of calmness I then notice as the light patterns in te inside of my eyelids or inner screen as youd describe it then often my eyes appear to have opened very slightly and let light in, I dont know if I should then open my eyes or not or what is happening. 2) Astral travel and etheric travel are these the same thing and does this come with working with the chakras. 3) when meditating - light inner meditation - are you trying to percieve as you say the chakra's. Do you try and focus your thoughts on the region of the chakra you are trying to percieve ? apologies as i dont quite understand, and by meditating on the chakra it helps that energy flow better? 4) Are the chakras the same as the earth, air, water and fire elementals?
1. If your eyes want to open a bit, it's ok to allow it to happen. This is usually caused by your inner energy - aka chi - moving upward. Chances are they will close again after awhile.
2. Astral and etheric travel are not directly related to working with the chakras. Astral travel and etheric travel are similar, in that with each, part of your spirit leaves your physical body. However, in etheric travel your spirit enters the etheric plane, which is just slightly higher in vibrational frequency than the physical plane, and in astral travel, your spirit moves into the astral plane, which is a higher vibrational frequency than the etheric plane.
Also, in etheric travel, even though you are out of your body, your surroundings are still mainly the physical world. While during astral travel, your surroundings are the astral plane, which is significantly different from the physical world.
3. When practicing the Inner Light Meditation, you are focussing on the light behind your eyelids and lower brow, or simply the serene darkness in this region. Although this meditation gradually opens the 6th chakra - aka the 3rd eye - there is no need to think about chakras while practicing it.
4. No, the chakras are not the same as the 4 elements. The chakras are essentially composed of etheric matter.
I have started reading about mindfulness meditation recently. I am having trouble understanding how not to try to suppress random thoughts and wanderings while trying to be in the moment. I have become acutely aware of how my mind wanders of almost all the time and it is very irritating.
The key to this is acceptance. Simply accept that your mind is going to create thoughts, and that those thoughts are going to get your attention... frequently. This is the case with nearly all beginning meditators.
As you proceed, you will discover that there will be days when there are less thoughts and your mind doesn't wander as much. And with time and experience, staying focussed will become easier and less of an issue.
I suggest you simply focus on your breathing with "medium effort," bring your attention back to your breath whenever you notice it has drifted off, and accept that this is ok and that you will still get good results even with a wandering mind.
Hello...my name is John. I recently returned from a year long journey to Asia in which I participated in a few meditation retreats. While staying at monastery in Sri Lanka, I began to experience shortness of breath and fatigue. This was about five months ago. I returned home to California about two months ago and have seen medical professionals. As of yet, a diagnosis has not been made. They feel I may have Tropical Pulmonary Eosinophilia, a disease endemic to South Asia. I am considering seeing an acupuncturist or a somatic healer. Meditation has been very difficult for several months now. Do you have any suggestions?
Hello John... There are many ways to meditate, so if your breathing problem is making meditation difficult, I suggest you try a method that does not include focussing on the breath. You might try this mantra meditation in which your breathing does not have to be involved at all.
There is no exact formula for this, but there are some techniques that can be very helpful for letting go. First, though, it will be helpful to understand that your mind is actually an energy field. When you are clinging to something, such as a worry, anger, resentment, an object, relationship, etc., it is essentially your mental energy field contracting around the idea of whatever it is, in order to hold on to it.
To let go, it is necessary for your mental energy field to expand a bit, which basically equates to relaxing your mind. The principle is: contraction = tension = holding on... while, expansion = relaxation = letting go.
• One technique that makes use of this principle is to mentally repeat the phrase "Let go" as you breath in and out. "Let" as you inhale... "go" as you exhale. You will notice that exhaling is a distinctly relaxing and letting go motion. So as you exhale and repeat "go," feel yourself and your mind relaxing, expanding and letting go.
• Technique 2: Whenever you notice yourself clinging to some thought or stressful situation, etc., gently expand and relax your mental energy field, with the clear intention of releasing whatever you may be holding on to. If you can't directly perceive your mental energy field, then simply imagine it as a whispy cloud or mist, and then imagine it expanding slightly.
HI there Jim, It’s me the beginner (5th Oct) Thank you for replying to my questions. I have started to read a book on the chakra's to try and gain an understanding of how you know you are awakening and working with them. Should you work form the base chakra upwards one at a time and not move up until you are fully aware that it is open or should you work in turn a little at a time with each one. Also I know it varies with each person but in general do you actually perceive the chakra with the mind’s eye as spinning colour type discs?
When it comes to working with the chakras, there is no particular order that should be followed. Therefore, I suggest you follow your intuition, as well as paying special attention to those chakras which represent the biggest stumbling blocks in your life.
Inwardly you can visualize them as colored spinning discs. However, unless your inner senses are highly developed, you will be "imagining" them more than directly "perceiving" them, and that's fine. To an individual who can actually "see" them, they appear as colored spinning wheels of light, but the colors are generally not the way they are typically portrayed, i.e. 1 - red, 2 - orange, etc.
Dear Jim, I am 62 years old and have been meditating for several years. I was taught to meditate with my eyes half closed, but find that I can't focus well that way and always end up closing my eyes. Is this acceptable? Also, as I'm a bit stiff, I sit on the edge of an armless chair. Is that ok over the long haul, or should I strive to increase flexsbility and sit on the floor? Thank you for your time. Wonderful site!
Hi Joe... Yes, it's fine to meditate with your eyes closed. Whatever works best and feels most natural to you is good. Same with your sitting position... I suggest going with whatever you find works best for you. It's ok to be comfortable when you meditate. In my early meditation days I experimented with various sitting positions and discovered my meditations were just as effective - and more enjoyable - when I was sitting comfortably.
Hello Jim... Are you familiar with the race car driver Jim Malloy who died in car crash in 1972? I discovered this from googling your name. Strange... with what had happened to Dan Wheldon recently. We can only wish that Jim Malloy and Dan Wheldon passed onto joyful rebirths. Anyway, I wrote you a while back about having difficulties breathing with meditation. These have cleared, but now there are strong muscle spasms in the lower back and torso region. Suppose there just energy releases, but it can be difficult to meditate because of them. Do you have suggestions? Blessings...
Yes, I know of him... but nothing beyond his name, occupation and cause of death.
Good to hear that your breathing problems have passed. The spasms are probably the release of blocked energies in that region, but without further info, such as history of back pain, current and ongoing stressors in your life, and types of physical activity you are engaged in, I can only say "probably."
If it is simply an energy release, I suggest you accept it as part of your meditation process (for now), and allow it to proceed until you are free of these blocked energies and the situation passes.
However, if it does not pass in a couple of weeks, you might consider having it checked out by a qualified acupuncturist.
I started meditation five years ago, watching my breath 45 minutes each morning and also small sessions of 20 minutes in the afternoon and night. I have now considerable control over myself and am generally happy and content. However, there are still occassions when I lose control over myself and shout at my wife or daughter, over which they insist on telling me that all my meditation is a wasted effort. I wonder how many more years to go before I totally stop having such embarassing moments.....
There is no actual time-frame for this... but there are some things you might find helpful to understand, regarding how to deal with it.
• Some issues can be "meditated away," while others require some other form of processing to complement the healing effects of meditation. In the case of anger/losing ones temper, it may be necessary to gain some understanding of the root of the problem. Your family may only be the trigger for some deeply rooted anger charges from your past. (Families are very good at that.) :-) You might consider exploring the deeper caverns of your psyche for the source of this, via methods such as self reflection, journaling, counseling, etc.
• An important part of mindfulness training involves learning how to accept our negative emotions when they arise, but remaining in a state of non-judging, non-attached awareness, so that we are not compelled to act on them. Supressing or denying anger does not work... but giving it the space to simply be there, and being fully present with it, is a very effective way to diffuse it.
• It's important that you and your family accept your humanness. It's good and necessary to try to refrain from hurtful actions. But at the same time, we are works-in-progress and can only make our best effort to deal with the challenges of physical reality.
• And finally, sometimes meditating for longer periods - such as what you've described - can actually make it more difficult to control anger, irritability and impatience. You might consider cutting back just a bit.
Thanks. Taking you advice, I have cut down my meditations to three smaller sessions, 30 min (morning), 20 min (afternoon) and 10 min (night). Hope it will help. Thanks again.
Hello Jim, Sometimes when I'm sitting in meditation I feel this motion within myself that sets my whole body 'bobbing'. It's usually mild and lasts a few seconds, sometimes longer. I assume it's coming from the chakras as it has a circlular motion to it and starts at different times from various locations along the spine. I'm not sure if there is anything I should be doing when this happens other than ride it out?
Yes, riding it out - and not considering it a distraction - is the best way to deal with it. If your physical body is actually moving, it is moving to facilitate the increased flow of chi moving through your spine. If your physical body only feels like it is bobbing, then it is one or more of your subtler energy bodies moving... most likely your etheric body, which your chakras are a part of.
Im very interested in meditation. I have never tried and had some hang ups about my mind being too busy. I did read all the stuff on the site and know now that shouldnt stop me. I am however a very anxious person and would like to ask if there are ever any risks with deeper states of consciousness and things like that? One concern (that may sound silly) is slipping into one of these states and not being able to quickly "come back" if my toddler wakes up and needs me. What if I find bad things "junking up" the place in my mind and it causes me emotional/mental harm?
If you follow some sensible guidelines, there is nothing to worry about. Those would mainly be: 1. Keep your meditation sessions to 20 minutes or less... and 2. Don't try to force anything to happen.
If you are meditating when your child wakes up, you will be able to return to your "normal" state quickly. However, if you are roused from your meditation very suddenly, you may feel a little bit discombobulated for a few moments.
Sometimes unwelcome memories can surface when one is meditating. But aside from the unpleasantness, unless they relate to extreme trauma that has been deeply suppressed, these memories cannot harm you mentally or emotionally.
I´ve been meditating for quite a short time (could be less than a year) but it is quite intense. I mean I never have any visions, I also don´t think that I am able to reach the deep meditative states but still the feelings are quite strong. When meditating for the very first time it popped into my mind that I could concentrate on my heart so I did it and experienced the great feeling of bliss which was so nice and pleasant that it became indeed the main reason why I started practising the meditation every day since that time.
Suddenly it happened to me that I was able to feel the bliss during the day (without the meditation). I stopped meditating after some time as I had to deal with other things like anxiety feelings and brain fog (probably due to stress at work which I was unable to handle but until now I´m not sure if it wasn´t caused or at least increased by the meditation practice). I returned back to it again about three months ago(yet the main reason wasn´t the blissful feeling this time) and then strange thing happened...
While working I suddenly experienced a very strong bliss feeling, it was much stronger than the one I reached during the meditations and lasted for more than a week. One could think that I´m lucky but in fact the bliss was so intense and strong that it was very hard to cope with as sometimes it was kind of unbearable plus I found it really hard to concentrate on other things except the constant bliss. Also, although I was able to feel the bliss over my body, I stayed quite depressed and sad in my mind.
It disappeared suddenly but now it´s back again, not so strong and permanent but that can change I´m sure. I´ve noticed it often shows up after emotional stress. I was searching the info on internet and found that it might be related to the kundalini awakening (which might have happened during my first meditation) or heart chakra opening possibly. However, sometimes I just think I went mad and should see the doctor as besides this I´m still experiencing the brain fogginess and mood swings.
Could you please explain what´s going on with me and hopefully give me an advice how to handle the bliss overload?
I keep meditating (in fact I became very interested in spirituality in general) and also practise the Five Tibetans rites once a day.
Hello Anna... Your theory is correct that your bliss overload is being caused by an increase in the flow of the energy known as kundalini or shakti, along with a heart chakra opening. You haven't gone mad... you are experiencing an extreme energy rush through your heart center, while this same energy is stirring up a lot of mental and emotional "clearing," which is causing the mood swings and brain fog.
You may be able to regulate the flow of this energy and its effects by the following means... • Decrease your meditation time by increments. You didn't say how long your sessions are, but if you are meditating more than 20 minutes a day, first cut back to 20 minutes. If that doesn't help, decrease to 15 minutes, and so on.
If you are meditating 20 minutes a day or less, simply keep decreasing in 5 minute increments from where you are. (Decreasing is generally better than stopping completely.)
• It's hard to know if the 5 Tibetan Rites are helping or exacerbating your situation, so I suggest you switch to some very gentle daily yoga exercises for awhile. Not too much and nothing rigorous... maybe 10 - 15 minutes or so.
• Drink some warm water with honey and ginger several times a day.
If this doesn't help in a week or two, please let me know. You can contact me directly at: jmalloy@meditationcenter.com
I have a few questions. I have been practicing mindfulness meditation along with "body scan" meditation for a few months now. I have experienced some detox reactions here and there which isn't an issue, since i know it is clearing negative energy.
Ive read about bad experiences with people sparking up too much kundalini energy while medilating. Is it possible to do this while practicing the meditation style I use? I want to avoid this at all costs! If so, what is the safest style of meditation, or what tips can you give to help avoid this?
Last question - I recently dealt with a bad breakup in which my partner cheated on me with several people. Will mindfulness help with the "grieving process?"
Thanks so much! Your insight is greatly appreciated!
Although there are no guarantees, Mindfulness Meditation is about as safe as you can get in regards to avoiding kundalini problems. Body scanning is ok too, providing it is done gently and not overdone.
The best ways to avoid such problems are: • Don't over-meditate... 20 minutes once a day or 10 to 15 minutes twice a day are good general guidelines for this. • Don't concentrate too hard or try to force anything to happen in meditation. Focussing with "medium effort" is best. • Avoid meditation methods that are based on moving energy through the body.
With that said, there are some misconceptions about the energy known as kundalini. This energy is essentially the life force that runs through and enlivens all of us. The thing to avoid is triggerring a sudden and extreme increase in the flow of this energy. True, this energy is very powerful and should be respected, but we have been gradually evolving our capacity to conduct it over the past few decades, so some of the negative stories you might read about it are not quite as likely to occur nowadays, provided one follows some good common sense guidelines.
Can mindfulness help you with your grieving process? Yes, in the sense that it can help you be present with the pain, without becoming as enmeshed in it or overwhelmed by it as you might be without the calm, detached awareness which Mindfulness helps you develop. The more fully your emotions can be felt - which is the purpose of the grieving process - the more quickly their charge can be released.
thank you for answering my previous post, I feel more at ease and relaxed now when knowing my experiences are indeed related to Kundalini. I was wandering when this awakening happened and came to the conclusion it was probably much earlier than my first meditation... Anyway, no matter when it was one thing is clear - it happened suddenly without previous spiritual practice.
In the past few days I read a lot about Kundalini and have to say that I got scared at first as many articles warn against the sudden kundalini awakening stating that such persons often end up in the madhouse (or even commit suicide) and desribing all the worst symptoms related to that. Even various gurus say that Kundalini should be awakened in prepared and highly spiritual person where the whole process is so easy that the energy release and its movement up to the crown chakra is almost unnoticed (as there are no blocks to clear out).
However, when considering that Kundalini can be awakened suddenly and spontaneously after emotional trauma, physical exhaustion, excessive meditation, drug usage, e.g. then I just don´t understand it. I mean it can be very painful and difficult but I believe everything happpens with some reason and if something should happen, then it simply happens. For instance why is this energy released in someone with no knowledge about Kundalini after smoking marijuana(meditating) for the first time while it doesn´t happen to many regular smokers (meditators)? And why it doesn´t work for someone who´s trying hard to achieve it?
And isn´t it always a benefit in the end - no matter how much pain and suffering it may cause until the process is finished?
As for me I have been dealing with constant brain fog for the past year, sometimes I wake up feeling really depressed, get anxious for no good reason or feel terribly lonely, sometimes I´m overloaded with excessive bliss (although it can feel so great that it´s impossible to express) and envy other people their "normal" lives... But deep inside I know I wouldn´t like my previous life back. Not at all.
Hello Anna... Sounds like you've arrived at a place of "alrightness" with your situation. As mentioned previously, more people are prepared to "safely" conduct this energy now than say 5 or 10 years ago. But you make a good point: There is a profound perfection inherent in the awakening process... And even though we have some choices in the matter, there is a wisdom in it which is beyond our own efforts.
Since you are currently running a lot of this energy, one of the most important things to understand about kundalini is this: It amplifies everything.
Hi I started meditating about 14 months ago. I go to a group meditation about once a month mainly for relaxation. I have found it to be an overwhelming experience and quite often my eyes will continually run during the meditation. My question is, there are things that I have seen in my meditations that I quite often see a few days later. These things are very specific and not the normal everyday things Does this have any relevance?
We generally go through 3 cycles of meditation during the class and talk about what we have experienced after each one. At the last meeting one of my 'colleagues' said that he saw 107 butterflies, he didn't count them but just knew that was how many there were. Two days later I was with a friend we were talking and he said 'i stopped looking after 107' I asked him why he had said this number and he said he had no idea, he was actually thinking of 170. And today, 2 weeks after the meeting, that number has come up again. Again it involved the same friend, who was working and said he had 107 emails to read. Does this have any significance or is it purely coincidence? Thank you for your time
When you see things in meditation that show up afterwards in your outer life, it indicates that during your meditation you are touching on that place where time is not linear - where everything exists simultaneously.
As for the number 107... it may have some personal significance for you or those experiencing it, or it may just be coincidental. The number itself has no universal significance that I am aware of. 108 however, is a very auspicious number in Hinduism, and somewhat significant in Tibetan Buddhism.
I have been meditation for more than 10 months without missing a single day. I love to meditate. I started with 15 minutes once a day, increasing to 20 minutes once a day, then 20 minutes twice a day. Then ½ hour twice a day, then 40 minutes twice a day. Now I meditate 1-2 hours a day. I love it. I'm doing breath-awareness meditation. I exercise regularly, eating healthy foods and getting my sleep.
I'm aware of you naming a limit on 1 hour a day for most people, but I really feel for more in my specific case.
My question is: What are the pros and cons for meditating 2 hours in the morning vs. 1 hour in the morning and 1 hour in the evening?
(For less time the question could be: 1 hour in the morning vs. ½ hour in the morning and ½ hour in the evening?)
Hello Thomas... When you meditate, it's like taking a dip in the light. This light raises your awareness and your vibration, cleanses and heals your physical and emotional self, and nourishes your body, mind and soul.
However, this powerful spiritual light also amplifies everything, including negative energies as it is clearing them away, ones day-to-day moods and reactions, and any unresolved issues and neurosis.
So determining how much meditation is productive and how much it takes to make it counter-productive depends on the point at which this process becomes uncomfortable rather than elevating, and the point at which ones moods, reactions, etc. become mucked up with all the negative "stuff" that is being cleared away.
Experience has shown me that for most people, 20 - 30 minutes once a day, or 15 - 20 minutes twice a day is a safe and reliable "guideline." However, everyone is hardwired a bit differently, so for some, more than this is ok, and for others less is better.
So, given this information, I suggest you monitor yourself honestly to see how much is best for you. Notice things like...
Does your meditation generally elevate your moods, your state of mind, your energy level, your ability to stay clear, calm and patient? (That would be the pros.)
Or are you noticing yourself over-reacting to situations, feeling more moody or irritable, feeling overly sensitive, seeing little neurotic behaviors creeping into your life, feeling physically off, tired or toxic? (The cons.)
If the pros clearly outweigh the cons, then your time-frame is ok. But if the reverse is true, then I suggest you consider cutting back your meditation time.
I will monitor myself honestly and closely. I have made the mistake before of turning up the time too much too quickly, which gave me heavy stress symptoms.
But whatever time I decide to set aside a day, what are the pros and cons of either splitting it up in two sittings or taking it all in one sitting?
If for instance I want to meditate one hour a day, should I take a ½ hour dip in the light in the morning and then again ½ hour at night, or should I take the full 1hour just in one sitting?
What are the pros and cons of splitting the time set aside per day up in two halves/two sittings vs. not splitting it up but making the time set aside in one sitting?
The pros of splitting your meditation into two sessions are: • Two shorter sessions tend to trigger less detox/stress release than one longer session.
• Meditating in the morning helps one clear the mind, fuel the brain, and get centered and vitalized for the day... while medtating at night helps one decompress and clear away the stress picked up during the day.
The only downside of doing two sessions is that many people find it difficult to carve out the time for it. Hence, the upside of doing just one session is that it's more convenient for some.
I have been meditating for some time and have had two experiences that seemed quite different and profound but both times I was told that this was not the "path". My mind remains alert and thinking but the rest of the world is not there. No sounds, no feelings of body, just mind floating in darkness. Is this event a "blind alley" or an aberration of some kind to be avoided?
Your experiences were actually very positive... a deep internal state sometimes referred to as "restful alertness."
It is a state of awareness that comes about spontaneously at certain times during meditation - i.e. not something you can make happen - so if an inner voice (or external person) referred to it as a "path," and implied that it was not a desirable state, I would say that it was not trustworthy information and to disregard it.
If this experience - or something similar - occurs again, I suggest you go with it and enjoy it.
i have a bit of a dire question to ask. the good news is that I know how to explain this one.
soi've beeing reading and practicing the 7 spirutla laws and recently found the power of now. and I finally get what deepak has been saying wehn he talks abotu detachment.
anyway, i've experienced the bliss and power of now quite a few time after learning about it.
I've also been looking to find other ways I can "live in the moment" but here is where my problem comes in.
Even though I 'know' how to live in and practice the now my 'monkey mind' sometimes bombards me with intense stupid questions like "how do I live in the now? what do I do? blah blah blah"
I know how to practice it, yet my mind keeps asking questions i already know the answer to and it fights so hard for my attention and focus that it drives me almost nuts.
In "The Power of Now," Eckhart Tolle gives some very good advice on this exact situation. He suggests that you view and treat this sort of mental chatter as you would a little child who's been going on for hours. Here's one of his quotes on this: "One day you may catch yourself smiling at the voice in your head, as you would smile at the antics of a child. This means that you no longer take the content of your mind all that seriously, as your sense of self does not depend on it."
Thank you for your answer on length of meditation.
I honestly feel that 1 hour of meditation is very good, but I really "thirst" for more ("thirst" may be an inappropriate word, because my meditations are very peaceful). I enjoy it so immensily.
IF I'm hardwired to being able to do more thatn 1 hour, will I get any benefits of doing more?
That would pretty much depend on what you aim to accomplish from your meditation, and what sort of meditation practice you are using to attain that aim.
First and foremost I want to enjoy the spiritual dimensions of meditation. And I want to deepen the peace of mind, that I feel when meditation daily. I want enlightenment.
Hello Thomas... There is really no absolute guideline regarding whether more meditation - and how much - will further your progress toward enlightenment, or whether more will actually have a reverse effect. You have experienced how it feels to trigger too much chi and consequently too much detox, so when deciding how much to meditate, simply monitor yourself closely and honestly, and use your common sense.
To monitor the ongoing effects of your meditation, ask yourself: Do I feel more peaceful or more agitated, irritable and impatient? Am I experiencing more inner balance or increased mood swings? Am I experiencing more clarity or more mental turbulence? Am I more focussed or more spacy? More grounded and centered or more sensitive and wired? More relaxed and accepting or more neurotic?
If you see the balance shift toward the downside, simply cut back on your meditation time.
If deepened peace and enlightenment is your goal, what I would strongly suggest is incorporating some meditation-in-action techniques into your daily life... methods you can use as you go about your daily activity that will help you integrate and maintain the peace and clarity you experience in meditation into your everyday awareness. These may include: simple breath awareness, mindfulness practices, or the use of mantras to help you maintain your inner connection from moment to moment.
Hello,I have been meditating for about two weeks and felt a great deal of relief since then.but the problem is that those negative feelings for which i started meditation have stated to bother me again and i don't know whether i am releasing these "negative feelings" or they are coming back to me as they used to in the past.I have been severely affected by phobia for 2 years and now i have stated meditation to destroy these fears . I want to know if meditation will help me in destroying my phobias and fears forever?Also ,how much time does it take to get rid of these negative feeling if i meditate regularly. Please help!
When an individual begins meditating, there is often what is called the "honeymoon period," when problems subside and the world looks much brighter. Sometimes it is very brief, sometimes longer, and gives the new meditator a little taste of the possibilities if he or she continues on the path of meditation. Then, as you have experienced, the honeymoon ends and it appears that it's back to the old reality, although on a deep level a new awareness has subtly begun to awaken.
That is not to say that permanent and tangible changes don't occur in the early stages - many little things do tend to change for the better - but the more deep seated problems take longer to resolve than a couple of weeks.
So if you are meditating to heal severe phobias and fears, yes... meditation will help you with this, but realistically it will take a fair amount of time. How long? No one can say, as each individual is different. But things are moving more quickly these days, due to a phase of accelerated evolution we are in. Also, please be aware that for deep seated issues like this, meditation works best when combined with other healing methods, such as psychological counseling or working with a competent professional hypnotherapist.
I have some more questions regarding the kundalini energy: Do you think it's good to help and support the healing process somehow, through various chakras healing focused therapies or even something "ordinary" like psychotherapy e.g., or is it better to leave it as it is and let the energy do its job...?
I think I came to state when I am grateful that I was given such an opportunity to grow and would even like to speed up the process a little bit, but the truth is that sometimes my negative symptoms get so bad that it's really hard for me to be able to do my job without getting extremely tired and exhausted. While the mental symptoms like deppression or mood swings faded away more or less, the physical symptoms increased in its intensity and are especially demonstrated in the head area - brain fog (which can get really thick), terrible head pressure (especially at top of the head), eye pain and sometimes even dizziness.
If I didn't have to work it would be much easier but this is just so hard...
Usually some grounding exercises are recommended but when I don't want to freeze the process or even slow it down do I have any choice how to handle it?
I was wondering... If kundalini clears out the imbalances in chakras (which causes the painful symtomps) then it might be helpful to work on chakras cleaning actively so that the energy can flow more freely.
Is it bad idea? And can I improve my head symptoms somehow?
Also, another question I have is whether it is good idea to get pregnant during the kundalini awakening? I mean I know it would be much easier without it but who knows how long the process will last and when considering that I'm turning 30 next year... I cannot wait forever.
Hello Anna... Your attitude toward this situation - seeing it as an opportunity for growth - will ultimately prove very beneficial. And yes, I would definitely encourage you to approach your healing process from a psychological or "issue-based" level as well, in order to augment and complement the energetic healing occurring through your meditation and the increased flow of kundalini.
Gaining awareness of the underlying issues that are contributing to your various symptoms - and being proactive in resolving them - will really accelerate your healing process.
I suggest you begin by focussing on issues that tend to block the 5th chakra. That would include (but not be limited to) • Issues around communication and self expression, such as having to refrain from saying what's on your mind or in your heart, not feeling free to communicate openly, keeping an uncomfortable secret, etc. • A tendency to worry or over-analyze • Feeling creatively blocked
And 6th chakra issues, which would include • Holding on to outworn beliefs • Blocking the inflow of new insights and new ways of seeing the world • Resisting the development of psychic/intuitive potential
To help reduce your symptoms, here is a meditative exercise for you. I suggest doing it once or twice a day for about 5 minutes, or whenever the discomfort spikes. • Sit comfortably, making sure your spine is reasonably straight. • Bring your attention to the 3 - 4 inch area at the back of your head where your head and neck meet. • Gently focus on this area. • Tell yourself you are safe, and that it's ok to relax this area and let go of its instinctual self-protective impulses for awhile. (This is the part of the brain that gives rise to the "fight or flight" impulse.) • Breathe consciously and naturally, allowing the muscles in this area to relax.
This exercise will allow the energy to flow more freely into your brain and higher centers. Never force the energy... just relax this area and allow it to flow.
Regarding pregnancy during this phase, I really can't say what the ramifications would be. However, from a strictly practical point of view, it would be best to get your energy level back up before venturing into motherhood, which - so I'm told - requires a good deal of energy. :-)
Thank you for your advice on bringing the peaceful state with me into my daily life. I have begun using your tips :-)
I have decided to meditate one hour every day for now. Not increasing the sitting time yet. I will give it some more time with this timeframe. And my question in this regard is: Can I deepen my meditation (1 hour meditation every morning) even though I don't increase the sitting time?
I was trying meditation for self development, it always seemed to take the form of a dream quest, anyway the reason I'm posting. In my meditation I was aware of a universe all around me, I was stood on what looked like a narrow path. My awareness wandered, because I realised I was looking at myself, from about 30 yards away, up about the same, but to the back on my (the viewed me) left hand side. When out of the deep universe a giant eye arose, until it was level with the self that was stood on the path. I tried to place my consciousness in the body that was on the path, and I was suddenly in three places, above, in the body and in the eye looking back. i was hit with an urge which was to leap into the eye. then is what this ramble is all about, it felt as though I fell through my life, I relived every moment of my life, I can't explain it any other way, but for the next few days I had total recall of every aspect, every event, even recalling things I'd never really known, the colour of a door 5 doors from where I was visiting?? has anyone else had similar experiences?
Yes, others have had experiences that were somewhat similar. Not all those elements together of course, but others have reported seeing a large eye while meditating, and many have experienced a full review/recall of their lives, particularly at moments when it "seemed" that death was imminent.
When you are meditating and in an altered state, it's pretty much "anything goes" - the possibile experiences are infinite. Often they have symbolic personal meaning for the individual, although at times they are simply random images. I suggest you ask yourself what sort of personal significance this experience may have had for you. Examine the symbolism, the feelings, what stood out most for you about your life, etc.
I feel my body numbness during meditation during sitting or sleeping position,and i use breathing technique? why is it happening and is there any effects.
The numbness you are feeling is simply the result of being in a relaxed state of consciousness. It is one of many possible ways to experience this level of relaxation. Unless you are feeling numb outside of meditation there is no cause for concern.
Hello again, I haven't visited for a few years :) I hope Mr. Malloy this finds you happy and well ~ always ~ Having just suggested your CD River of Tranquility to someone on a facebook page, I wanted to drop by and thank you again for this CD. It got me past the inital anxiety phase of (returning to) Meditation, and I believe it will her too if she chooses. I also am deeply comforted by it when I need that. Your River of Tranquilty is my 'saftey blankee' :) Erin / Katanathene
Hi Erin... Good to hear from you, and I'm very happy to hear that River of Tranquility has been so helpful for you. I really do appreciate your good feedback... thanks.
hi sir, i have been meditating regularly since 7 months and also stopped eating non vegetarian food,at night time i am feeling vibrations within, i could also sense my legs floating in air,for the first time i am curious and i had my first out of body experience, i walked within my house, it lasted only few minutes, but then in my room i could sense some human form unknown, even though i was not conscious enough to be fear then, after i entered into my body, i was very afraid,now at night i was unable to sleep because of all this, while sleeping i am also feeling pressure in head, can u please clarify me what are all these about?
Hello Bindu... There is nothing to fear. When you are having an out of body experience you are actually in the "astral world" - the next plane up in vibration from our physical world. Like our physical world, the astral world is populated with many individuals. The difference is that they currently do not have physical bodies. These individuals cannot harm you... they are simply souls, like yourself, but living in a different world - a different vibration.
So you can rest assured that you are safe when you are sleeping... and if you leave your body again and encounter any more astral individuals, just say "hi" and move on.
The pressure in your head may be caused by tension from worrying about this experience, or by your inner spiritual energy attempting to clear a little energy blockage from your 6th chakra... or both. Either way, it will quite likely pass soon.
Hi Jim, I've been experiencing something different while meditating or even just relaxing lately and wondered if you might have some insight to share with me. It seems a bit difficult to describe, but it feels like chills without being cold. I noticed it mostly in my arms, but certainly not exclusively there. Thank you. Sheryl
Hi Sheryl... From your description, it sounds like one of two possibilities: One is that you are feeling your inner spiritual energy - or chi - moving suddenly through the areas where the chill-like feelings are taking place.
The other is that when you meditate, your physiological functions tend to slow down, including your metabolic rate, which can produce feelings of being chilled.
Either way, what you are experiencing sounds safe and natural, and nothing to be concerned about.
Hello,I ran into your website recently and started doing meditation with keeping those 8 points in my mind .It really made my meditation easier and easier .But the problem is I have adhd for about 10 months and i didnt realize it until recently and this is the reason why i started meditation.Though regular practice of meditation has decreased my adhd symptoms i can concentrate better but sometimes i cannot stop worrying about doing my meditation right .I know that you have recommended not to think too much about your meditation practice but due to adhd i just cannot stop getting worried about it.So can you tell me what can i do to resolve it or would meditation ever cure my adhd forever.I have benn meditating for 2 months now.Thanks in advance.
Hello Urwashi... First of all I can assure you that meditation is not about doing it right or wrong... it is simply about doing it.
However, if your mind insists on churning out worried thoughts about whether or not you are doing it right, it won't help to fight it. The best thing you can do is to cultivate the ability to not take these thoughts seriously. Just allow your mind to create them, give them the space to be there, and keep bringing your attention back to your breath (or whatever your primary object of focus is).
Developing this ability will serve you well in meditation as well as in your day-to-day life.
As to whether meditation can completely and permanently cure your adhd, I can't promise that, although as you are already discovering, it can be very helpful. What I can say is that regular meditation will contribute significantly to your healing process, but it would be best if used as part of a broader healing regimen.
When receiving a message from a healer a beehive shaped object covered in an delicate ancient lace appeared over me; the feeling I experienced was very pleasant.
Hello Jim, I'm writing to you because I really don't know who else to ask about this. I had a profound healing through Reiki over fours years ago and began meditating more regularly after that. Around the same time, I had three different experiences of hearing voices as I awoke in the morning. Just a word or a short sentence -- one said "good morning". It was unsettling at best and I "put it out there" that I didn't want to hear voices like that again. It stopped until last month when I woke up hearing "Hey! Look, it's 3:33". I sat up a bit in bed and turned around to face the clock and yes, it was 3:33. At the time I thought "hmmm, it is 3:33" and went back to sleep, but felt strange about it the next day. I woke up and looked at the clock a few days ago and it ws 3:33 and when I wrote about it in my journal, I looked back to the time I heard the voice tell me it was 3:33 and it was exactly one month. I don't know what all this means. I feel frightened and embarressed. I really dread the possibility that I'm losing it -- hearing voices and such. I don't want to be bothered by negative or even questionable energies. I guess I should tell you that I've had other phenomena throughout my life. Silly things like smelling cookies baking and then having my mother call to tell me she was making me the same type of cookies that I smelled and helpful things like hearing (inside my head) "slow down there's a dear" and then as soon as I slowed down, a dear shot across the road in front of me, and premonitions through dreams. Once, I was driving down the road singing and I couldn't remember the words and I "heard" "why dont' you turn on the radio?" I immediately turned it on and that same doggone song was playing -- just beginning to play like it was perfect timing. I was amused and a bit bewildered, but not scared and worried like I feel now. I met a catholic priest at an art class a few years ago and we became sorta friendly. I've done Reiki for him and we touch base now and then, but I hesitate asking him,even though he is a pretty cool guy, because I am afraid he might be a bit biased and will scare me even further. I know this is long and I realize you might not want to deal with it, but if you have any ideas and could shed some insight or direct me, I would be so grateful. I don't want to handle this the wrong way. BTW, I have no history of mental illness and have always been considered intelligent (enough) and a fairly good, level headed person. Thank you Jim. Sheryl
Hello Sheryl... The good news is, you are not losing it and have nothing to worry about here. (No bad news, really.) You live in a limitless Universe, comprised of myriad dimensions, most of them teeming with life. Within that infinite frame-work, you - and everyone - have at least one spiritual guide, assigned to you to help guide you on your journey through this often bewildering dimension we call Earth.
From your description, I would say that these incidents were simply your guide - or one of them - trying to get your attention... just letting you know it's around and here to assist you. If anything like this occurs again, you might want to acknowledge its presence - a friendly "Hi" will do. Or you may choose to establish a closer communication with your guide, which - in my experience - is a very handy thing.
Hi jim, I have just started to try and meditate regularly and have been using some beads to count mantras and saying the mantra "hare Krishna hare Krishna Krishna Krishna hare hare. Hare Rama hare Rama rama Rama hare hare". It's quite long and much longer than the mantras you advise on here. I don't mind this as I feel like I need something substantial to focus on as I have very little time to myself with two young children making noise in the background. Is this ok? I do find I am yawning a lot with it so perhaps it is affecting my natural breath? Any advise appreciated. Peace and love, Fiona
Hi Fiona... The length of a mantra doesn't really matter. The important thing is that you are comfortable with it, and with the results it produces.
If you are yawning during meditation, it generally means: • You are tired. • Or your meditation is triggering the clearing of some stored up stress, which is being released through yawning. Either of these are ok and natural. Of course, it may also mean that you are a little bit bored... but that's ok too. :-)
Hi Jim, Thanks for your help. I have just one question: After sporatically meditating with little obvious results through the years, I began meditating twice a day for 20 minutes and am noticing some positive results. In the past few days I have moved up to 1 hour twice a day...and am becoming used to it. At age sixty two I feel I need to up my meditation time as I may have little time left. I have noted that you seem to recommend shorter times. Is there any reason I shouldn't be doing such long sessions?
Yes there is. The reason is that meditation taps some very powerful - albeit positive - energies. These energies are what elevate your consciousness and cleanse your system of stored up toxins... physical and emotional.
The average human nervous system/energy system can only conduct a certain degree of these energies effectively and comfortably. Beyond that, it becomes counter-productive and can lead to a variety of uncomfortable and/or harmful symptoms. The end result is generally that the individual quits meditating.
Although we are all hardwired differently, I have found through experience that for most meditators, 20 minutes once a day - or 10 to 20 minutes twice a day - is a good and workable duration.
I do know that meditation has been doing me so much good but this last month I have been missing my sessions.Why I do not know its like I havent had time but really have most of the day to myself.I did a 15 minute session this morning and feel great because of it.I suffer from depression and this has helped me so much.How can I keep myself up with a routine?DODO.
First, it is important to understand that we all have a little bit of resistance to anything that accelerates our growth and positive changes in our lives. This inner resistance is generally what is responsible for individuals avoiding their meditation, even though they know how beneficial it is. The surest way to overcome this inner resistance is: 1. Pick a specific time of day when you are most likely to have about 15 minutes to yourself. It can be first thing in the morning, last thing before bed, mid-day, etc... whatever works for you.
2. Make this your meditation time, and commit to meditating at that time each day no matter what.
3. Keep your commitment. It may take a bit of self discipline at first. But once you've developed a habit of meditating daily, it becomes much easier.
hi ive just started getting interested in spiritual guidance but have bin a little put off by someone who initialy helped me get interested in it as it was all about helping fellow man and being happy with one self and not hurting those around us but he just showed me disrespect and lied to me he also show a very nasty side to himself he was brought up with respect and this teaching of higher self and spirituality so u can see my query is im not so sure if this can really help me move forward on
Unfortunately, not everyone who meditates or is on a spiritual path walks their talk. But I have seen how meditation has helped many individuals become better people, including myself. If you are considering taking up meditation and/or other spiritual practices, I suggest you simply try them for a reasonable amount of time to see what they do for you. It would be a shame for you to miss out on all the many benefits based on one person's disrespectful actions.
I was asked by email do I get bored when I meditate.Well I dont My problem is starting or getting ready to mediatate.Once I am there I do feel so good and have had a session or two with an hour and a half that has passed.Dodo.
What you are describing is a classic example of the "resistance" to meditation I mentioned in my response to your last question. What part of you is it that's resisting? Essentially it's your ego-mind, which is trying to avoid losing its position as "chief operating officer" of your life.
Being aware that it is doing this can help you to not buy into its resistance when it's time to meditate. But the bottom line is that it takes a bit of will power and resolve. Here's a pre-meditation mantra for you. "Just do it."
You wrote: "not everyone who meditates or is on a spiritual path walks their talk."
What does it mean to "walk the talk" of meditation? Isn't meditation helping those with "bad" intentions, detoxing them, and helping them to become "better" persons?
Yes, meditation does help one to become a better person. However, we are all humans with our own unique shortcomings... plus we all come to our meditation practice from a different starting point. Consequently, it takes some individuals a bit longer for the loving-kindness to kick in. :-)
For those who haven't read this particular Q & A: The answer was in response to an individual's question, regarding a person who was encouraging them to meditate, while at the same time not treating them very kindly.
I've have been observing and experiencing the lead-up to this time for many years. And have given the phenomenon a lot of thought... more than I can write about here. So, here is a free copy of the e-book I've written on the subject.
I have been meditating for almost 1½ year, at least 20 minutes every day, but often between 20-40 minutes each morning and evening.
It has been a journey of personal development for me, with both peace and war inside me.
I have suffered from (probably a mild) hypochondria since early childhood - always being afraid of being deadly ill, or afraid of becoming deadly ill. And I have also (just MAYBE, because the psychiatrist couldn't find any for sure) had a very mild OCD, where I always checked and double checked a lot.
Now, after meditating for 1½ year I can confidently say, that it's all gone! I'm NOT afraid anymore. I do NOT check anymore. Not at all. Really.
But these only feel like some "minor changes". What has really captured my focus is the way my self-image has turned upside-down.
I thought myself to be morally superior - or at least I was claiming to have acknowledged the importance of a great moral code. To such an extend that I kept "teaching" others how to be moral perfect. It had become my mission. I was a preacher.
... After meditating for some time (and of course we are still within the time frame of the 1½ year), my ego began to emerge - at least I became aware of it.
I think my guard came down when meditating - I was ready to look inside. And what I have found sometimes shocks me greatly. Sometimes I find only ego. A very intense ego. Nothing but a will to my own good. Sometimes it feels like looking at such an "evil darkness", that I'm afraid that this is "human nature".
I think this is a great lesson for me. Especially because I have been so sanctimonious (hope it's the right word, taken from google translation). And I do think too that I can't find real compassion for others if I don't recognize this "nature of the flesh" (if it is so). I can't tame the beast, or at least get around the beast, before staring it in its eyes.
For almost a year ago I felt such a hate against some of my colleges (those at the same age at me) - I felt that it was like moving through a massive mountain to accept and feel this hate. But meditation helped me. I could feel the feelings without fleeing. And suddenly it was all over, and I have never felt the hate again. Instead I have changed my view on my colleges. And instead of feeling rejected I saw my colleges as open, some of them even wanting to befriend me, and that it was me who was unapproachable.
In the process I found out it was me, who was insecure. And I sought validation from others. I still do.
Now I'm working with my insecurities. I have gone from feeling righteous indignation in many situations to accepting that I'm not morally superior or especially "strong". I'm just a man with a pretty face, a supporting family, great friends, good social connections, but also insecurities that I have to work with if I want to be more happy and relaxed.
Can you comfort me or guide me with your words? - As you have done so many times before :-)
You have made tremendous progress in a year and a half. So first I suggest you stop, take a breath or two, and acknowledge how far you've come. It's okay to feel good about this, and now you know that you are quite capable of doing effective inner work.
One of the main reasons you have been able to get to this point, is because of your willingness to look honestly at yourself. That is essential for carrying on effective inner work. As you proceed, I suggest you continue to view yourself with this same unflinching honesty... while at the same time honoring your humanness, i.e. accepting that in this world of duality, we all have our light side and our shadow side.
Then trust that life will send you the exact circumstances you need to work through these insecurities... and pay attention.
The difference between prayer and meditation depends on what sort of prayer one is doing. There are forms of prayer, such as contemplative prayer, centering prayer, or deep prayer that are virtually the same as meditation.
Then there are forms of prayer that differ from meditation primarily due to their intent. The type of prayer most people are familiar with - "petition" - differs from meditation in that it is asking for something specific, such as healing, a better situation, etc. Whereas the basic intent of meditation is generally to attain a direct inner experience, whether it be of the divine, inner peace, or simply relaxation.
Both meditation and prayer - especially the types mentioned in the 1st paragraph - can be equally effective for receiving grace.
Yes... any phrases that affirm your identity with your peaceful Inner Self. For example: "I am." Or phrases that affirm your identity with the Universal Spirit. For example: "I am the Light," "I am That," or "All this is That."
Thanks for your answer to my question about affirmations.
What about affirmations for surrendering? If I recall right, I think that Ramana Maharshi talks about two major topics: Vichara/self-inquiry and surrendering. Ramana Maharshi is often associated with the first approach, but I think he talks equally well for "Surrendering".
A very simple - yet effective - affirmation for surrendering is "Let go." When using this affirmation, it helps to sync it with your breathing, repeating "let" as you inhale, and "go" as you exhale. On the exhalation, you can viscerally feel yourself letting go, as the outbreath is a natural act of releasing.
I was wondering if anyone could tell me what are the green and yellow or purple colors I see on the wall, its not auras i can tell you that. And why is there a portal over my house which I opened, and last the most important why do we need to meditate in hope for power or freedom or hope for a better place?
I have no answer to your first two questions. In regards to meditation, it's a choice... You are free to choose whether or not to meditate. And although you may discover benefits that you had not counted on, it's entirely up to you to decide why you are meditating, i.e. what you want to attain from the practice of meditation.
(I will sent you two post on this blog, because it will not allow the length of the text).
How is self-esteem and meditation related to each other?
Through meditation I have begun a journey inwards through many layers of feelings and beliefs - always getting deeper it seems.
On the workplace I moved through a feeling of hate against others to a feeling of me not being appreciated/recognized. The feeling of hate got very intense ... and then disappeared. It never came back. It still seems to me it got resolved because I found something deeper it had been feeding on - the feeling of not being appreciated/recognized. But also this feeling disappeared. And the clearance of these feelings has given me tremendous comfort in my colleges and my work. It has helped my relations and my enthusiasm about my work.
But now I'm in a romantic relationship. And I feel strong - hurtful - feelings once again. This time it is jealousy and insecurities. And once again meditation seems to peel away layers and getting to the root of the problem ...
- Lately I have found out that I really lack self-esteem. Or maybe the lack I have just feels like a big lack.
When I meditate (and afterwards) the feeling gets stronger. It seems to me that meditation is a way to "lay down the guards" or some kind of surrendering - so the attention can deepen and really sink all the way into the self.
But this process - besides it lets me get conscious of so many things inside myself, for instance feelings, patterns of thinking, even hypocrisy! - also make me feel very vulnerable, very sensitive. And I mean VERY vulnerable and VERY sensitive. Especially now when I'm aware of my desire to improve different areas of my life where I feel I could do better (e.g. romantic relationships).
And because I feel so vulnerable and sensitive I began meditating a shorter time, though still daily. And I also used affirmations and worked on myself by talking with friends and taking some long walks and reflecting.
BUT, BUT, I keep getting back to meditation. Because it seems to me that while affirmations, conversations and reflections CONSTRUCT something, meditation on the other hand PEEL AWAY LAYERS. And I think I need to do this to get to the root. The alternative (bad alternative) would be to buy some new fresh wallpaper to put on a rotten wall, to use a metaphor.
Yesterday when meditating it suddenly became clear to me why I feel low self-worth - or I became aware of part of the reason. All my life I have "raised my value" through being handsome, getting good grades in school, showing a faked confident behavior, etc. I have been manipulative and self-deceptive to the point of being deluded, no kidding.
- And THAT'S why I suddenly knew why I'm suffering from low self-esteem. Or at least where a part of my low self-esteem comes from. It is coming from identifying with exactly the aforementioned things. Good grades, good looks and manipulative behavior will NEVER add to my real self-worth! It was so clear, suddenly when meditating yesterday.
... After my meditation this insight faded to a "knowing" - and that's why I can write about it now. But yesterday it was clear without words.
So back to my question about the relation between self-esteem and meditation.
Can I transcend in this area - romantic relationships and the deeper part: Low self-worth - like I won the battle at my workplace? Because now it feels SO INTENSE, I FEEL SO VULNERABLE. And my meditation practice adds to this feeling of vulnerability. My shield against my-self has been laid down, the armor has been taken off, my stoneskin has vanished. Now there's just vulnerable me - and it is getting very intense. I can feel it in my solar plexus sometimes.
I have written to you before, and now I write again. You are a great comfort. And your advices are the best I have ever seen. For instance: I can't find any other place on the web where there's writings about the detoxification process. And you communicate always to the point. I have only good things to say. And if I can inspire others with my personal story, then great :-)
Thank you for being a comfort and a light, dear Jim.
Hello Thomas... It sounds like you are making very good progress. Having the courage and self honesty to move through all these layers, letting all the "stuff" come up into the light of your awareness, is an extremely valuable ally to have on your journey of awakening.
Along with whatever happiness your current relationship is providing, you can be sure that it is also perfectly designed by your Higher Self to trigger this issue and these intense feelings so that you can move through them as you have with your previous issues. Amazing how much stuff relationships can bring up, isn't it? :-)
Regarding self esteem, there are various levels of cultivating positive self worth... • There is coming to understand the deeper reasons for low self worth, which is essentially what you are now getting in touch with. • There is learning to acknowledge and appreciate your good qualities - the authentic good ones. • There is discovering that the Universe loves and accepts you exactly as you are. • And there is awakening to the truth that you, as a spiritual being, are an inseparable part of the Universe - perfect as you are, and yet still evolving, still growing to greater heights of fulfillment.
If you continue doing what you've been doing - your daily meditation, plus exploring the depths of your being and being present with what comes up - you will ultimately open to these various levels of self worth.
As in sitting meditation we repeat mantra faintly in mind similarly should we repeat mantra faintly in mind during japa (meditation in action) i.e. how can we attend more relax by repeating mantra faintly or being focused on mantra.
Repeating a mantra faintly tends to allow for deeper relaxation. However, when using a mantra for japa, I suggest you repeat it in whatever way feels most comfortable and natural. That can change as your activity changes. Some situations require more of your attention and some less. So the degree to which your mantra will be in the background or foreground, should naturally change accordingly.
I have been practicing mindfulness for almost 9 months now. I have begun to have extremely vivid dreams, which has led me to research a new fascination - lucid dreaming!
I have been told that "astral projection" can be of some concern due to the negative entities in the astral plane. My question is - what is the difference between astral projecting and lucid dreaming? Is there any dangers of this sort that I should be aware of while practicing lucidity?
The reason lucidity is so intriguing to me is to have the ability to communicate directly with my subconscious mind, but I wanted to make sure that this is not the same as astral projecting!
There are some crossovers between these two practices, but they are essentially two different exercises. While astral projection is deliberately leaving your physical body to consciously trek around the astral plane, lucid dreaming is learning how to maintain enough consciousness while dreaming to clearly percieve your experiences and ultimately control the events that occur in your dreams.
Where they crossover, is that there are some dreams where you are out of your physical body experiencing things on the astral plane. However, there are also dreams in which you are still in your body, simply perceiving images arising from your subconscious mind.
As for encountering negativity on the astral plane, yes, that can happen, but whatever you encounter is generally a reflection of your own inner terrain. Hence, the best way to avoid that is: 1. Clear away your internal fears and toxic emotions as much as possible. 2. Raise your energy vibration as much as possible.
Meditation, coupled with some form of "inner work," such as quiet self reflection or journaling, are effective ways to do this.
A principle that very much applies to astral experiences is, "There is nothing to fear but fear itself."
When you say sometimes you leave your body, and in other Lucid states you don't - does this depend on the induction technique used? For example WILD (wake induced - from waking state directly into a lucid date) vs DILD (dream induced - realizing you're dreaming while in a dream).
If so, I'll stick to DILD! From my understandings, the negative energies in the astral plane can cause harm. Is this true? I'd like to avoid this and still be able to enjoy the amazing art of lucid dreaming.
Thanks a lot. Your guidance on this website is amazing!
I can't really answer your question about induction techniques. I was simply referring to the dream state in general, sometimes being out of your body and sometimes not. From my understanding, lucid dreaming can occur either way.
If you encounter negative astral energies from a place of fear or combativeness, then yes, your astral body can get a bit dinged up. Hence, if you are reticent about going there, it's best to avoid it.
Hello Mr. Malloy. I am fairly new at meditation. I had read about it for over a year before I started to actually do it. I have researched a lot of Edgar Cayce material along with organizations and people associated with him, such as John Van Auken and the Edgar Cayce's A.R.E. After maybe a few times of meditating, I wasn't expecting anything miraculous right away, I was always just trying to focus on my breathing and the silence within. However, one night, as I was meditating, I started to feel this strange feeling all over the outside of my body (not within) but mainly around my head. It felt like a static like electricity. It didn't feel painful or bad or anything. The best way I can describe it is a static like vibration around me, mostly around my head and shoulders. It was so strange to me that I snapped myself out of it (although I wish I hadn't). Was I just starting to fall asleep? I don't think I was but since I am so new at this I could not tell. Perhaps I was actually getting somewhere! Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Hello Andrea... One thing you begin to discover from the practice of meditation, is that part of your overall makeup consists of subtle energy fields that exist in the same space as your physical body, but are not confined to your body. These go by various names, including: your aura, your magnetic energy field, and your energy bodies.
Meditation not only opens your awareness to these subtler parts of yourself, but also tends to trigger increased movement of these energies, which is essentially what you experienced. As long as it occurs naturally - i.e. not by deliberate effort - it's safe and actually a positive thing.
So if you experience anything like this in the future, I suggest you simply allow it to continue, and accept it for what it is. One thing I would not encourage, however, is equating it with "getting somewhere." It's better to maintain an attitude that everything you experience when meditating is part of a larger process of growth, healing and awakening.
Yes, I do have an update... As we approach the 21st of December, the process of shifting to a higher state of consciousness and moving into a higher vibrational frequency continues to escalate.
How is this manifesting? On the plus side, I am hearing stories from many individuals all over the planet about how much their spiritual growth has accelerated in the last year or so. That includes experiencing higher states awareness, accelerated learning, the development of spiritual gifts such a intuition, the desire to be of service, and increased dedication to meditation, yoga and other inner practices.
On the stressful side, everything is becoming more and more amplified. Collectively, planetary events - from weather to world tensions and atrocities - are more intense than ever.
Individually, one of the the most apparent places to observe this amplification is in our everyday reactions to things that we like and dislike. Just notice what a hair trigger most people's emotional reactions are set on at this time.
It's all part of the process of clearing our individual and collective "shadow," elevating our consciousness, and acclimating to living at a higher vibration. Will this culminate in a quantum leap in consciousness at the end of this year? I really can't say. But whether it does or does not, I'm quite certain that this process will continue until we ultimately do reach a level of consciousness at which we can live in a state of greater peace, harmony and compassion on this planet.
can you tell what is the current status of vibrations and seeing the current vibrations can you predict that mother earth will be completely established in a new higher vibration by the end of 2012.
The vibrational frequencies that are driving the consciousness shift continue to escalate. This power is amplifying everything as it pushes us (what use to be a strong "nudge" is now an outright push) to raise our consciousness and vibration.
Will we be established in the new consciousness by the end of this year? I cannot predict that. However, as I look around and observe where we are now and how the majority of humanity is responding, I would say "probably not"... unless we are hit with a vibrational wave so powerful that it is irresistable. I hope I'm wrong.
I am optimistic though, that our awakening process will continue until we have reached a new level of consciousness, however long that takes.
I have finally done it, I've finally understood bases of what it is I was suppose to understand.
since 2010 my life hit the fan and I've been looking for means of not just restoring it but getting it where I want it to go.
I've been reading up on manifestations and energy work and all sorts of things, still holding a objective and realistic view on the matter.
To shorten a long story I understand what my Spirit has been trying to tell me.
you know so many people study manifestations, magic and the like to gain or have something.
I've discovered the truth and wanted to share it with you and the other readers.
it's only about you, the real you. Being in constant sync with your spirit/super concious mind.
The Best teachers/master of manifestation have informed me that, what we are truly seeking is happiness and happiness can only come from ourselves.
we can be the most wealthy person in the world and still be miserable.
we can have another adore us and still feel unloved
we can be the most powerful magician in history and still feel bitterness.
It's all about being in sync with our spirit and there by being happy.
on top of that, every teacher from joe vitale, to deepak chopra tells us. Anything you desire will come to you if you just ''feel good with what is'' and ''be happy now''
I know that only few people may be ready for this message but I hope it helps those who are and I am so lucky to have learned this at such a young age.
I hope this helps others see the light as it has myself
Hi I have a long history of having Panic Attacks(social settings)and have read that meditating can be helpful. I just started meditating once a day and love how safe I feel. Would appreciate any advice. Tom
Hi Tom... It sounds like you're off to a good start and are getting some good results quickly. Therefore, I'd suggest you continue what you are doing - meditating once daily with whatever method you've been using.
Along with that, I suggest that you: • Keep the length of your meditations between 10 and 20 minutes.
• Stay with it. You may go through periods - days or weeks - where the meditation is clearly helping, and other periods where the results are not so apparent. This may or may not occur, but if it does, stay on track and don't allow yourself to become discouraged. Cycles are a natural part of the growth process.
i wanted to ask about a particular observation i had this week.
so I was practicing mindfullness during work and i had this feeling of peace and bliss.
once i got my momentum it was super eas maintain this state but the thing I noticed was, after a while , even though it was easy to maintian I started to feel a senseof slight pain.
I can't really understand or explain it but it was like I was in a state of bliss yet that state was starting to cause light pain and discomfort and I'm not sure why
Nice to hear about your experience. Sudden elevated states like this are generally brought about by a slight increase in the spiritual energy - or chi - flowing through you. This same energy, however, is also a cleansing and healing force, and the pain is most likely an effect of the increased chi working to remove a slight energy obstruction from somewhere in your body.
The pain will pass. Meanwhile, I suggest you simply be mindful of the sensation, giving it the space to be there... until it's not.
I did a guided meditation a few years back and now I cant find it anywhere. I was a meditation seeking answers in which you travel across a desert until you come to a tent and inside the tent is a table with a box on it. in your minds eye you write down the question and place it in the box. have you heard of this and know where I can find it again?
If it's called "tantra massage," then technically it would be massage rather than meditation. However, if it is approached with a meditative attitude, then it can be considered somewhat of a meditation exercise as well. Hence, the level of approach would depend mainly on the practitioner and his or her intent.
The original essence of Tantra was to transform everything one does into a form of spiritual practice, although we in the modern era have (understandably) tended to focus primarily on the sexual aspects.
Should breath meditation (focusing on your breath) be thought of as only a preliminary practice, as I have often read it is (on the net when searching on google)?
Breath awareness meditation can serve as a foundation practice, or it can be used throughout the course of ones journey. It partly depends on what you are trying to achieve from the practice of meditation.
For relaxation and stress reduction, it can be an effective tool for life.
For those using it for spiritual awakening, some do eventually move on to other practices... while those who stay with this meditation tend to discover that their awareness gradually expands beyond breath to encompass higher and deeper aspects of their being.
Hmm it looks like your website ate my first comment (it was extremely long) so I guess I'll just sum it up what I wrote and say, I'm thoroughly enjoying your blog.
I too am an aspiring blog blogger but I'm still new to the whole thing. Do you have any helpful hints for rookie blog writers? I'd really appreciate it.
Hi Jim. This is wonderful website and thank you for it. I am quite new to meditation practice and I have some questions. I am doing 10-15 minutes sitting meditation every day. Also I am trying to do daily things with awareness. Like when I am walking I now that I am walking. When I am eating and drinking I do these things also mindfully. Trying to be in the now and here as much as possible. I know that sitting meditation sessions should not be longer than 10-20 min, because during meditation there is increased lifeforce energy flowing into body. So I would like to know is it possible to practice too musch awareness in daily life (doing as many things mindfully as possible)? What is the difference between sitting meditation and doing things with awareness in daily life. Is their both purpose is to be totally aware about the present moument? Are there different energies involved douring these practices? And one more question. I have read that OSHO have suggested to begin with active meditations, to get rid of any negativity inside the body. Do you think that doing sitting meditation will be ok and in the end these negative toxins in body will be released?
Hello Karl... I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying the Online Meditation Center.
Yes, during sitting meditation there is an increased influx of life force. This is due to various factors including posture, turning the attention inward, breath-awareness, etc. However, this is not the case when you are being mindful during your moment-to-moment activities, so you cannot really over-do it.
It's not that there are different energies at play, but that you are simply not drawing in a significantly increased amount by being more present in your daily life .
Osho's basic premise was that westerners are very restless, and find it too difficult to go from their normal busyness straight to sitting quietly in meditation. Hence, he developed some specific exercises to help people blow off a bit of steam before sitting still to meditate. Is this premise true for all westerners? No. But no doubt some would find it useful.
Is there any bad effect of meditation which might lead to loss of some memories - good or bad?
I am not sure if it is because of meditation or some other neural.
This is my first question, my second question is - usually after sex, I am able to lay down for some minutes, completely blank and a small sensation between my eyes or above it in fore-head or sometimes even above that near to top of head/skull. Is it OK to go in meditation right after sex... ?
No, I've never heard of meditation causing memory loss. However, meditation does help neutralize the negative electrical/emotional charges that accompany memories of unresolved trauma and other negative experiences. This is very valuable for restoring and maintaining health and well being.
Yes, it's ok to go into meditation after sex... as long as your partner doesn't mind the lack of attention. Definitely healthier than having a smoke. :-]
I have been meditating for more than two years now. I'm happy about 20 minutes twice a day. Sometimes I feel for more, but somehow I return to 20 minutes twice a day.
Is 20 minutes twice a day good for a lifetime?
Many websites say that this timeframe is an absolute minimum and that one should be pressing on increasing sitting time. Am I missing out on some deeper spiritual transformation? Or am I hardwired poorly since I like 20 minutes two times a day?
Neither. Your intuitive sense of how much meditation is right for you is more reliable than what anyone else can tell you. In my experience, I've found that 20 minutes twice a day is plenty for the vast majority of people. I meditate 20 minutes twice a day, and after 46 years of meditating, I find that time-frame to be quite sufficient for my spiritual growth and my day-to-day well-being.
If you commented anonymously, I don't think you would have been given that option. If you signed up and became a subscriber, I think you can simply unsubscribe and you won't receive any more notifications.
hi there.my name is saied. my question is when i inmy meditation state for the chackras at the rescent time i suffer from some movements in my body for ex when my meditation is on the 3chackra my belly moves as asound speaker sometimes so strongly.also when is the heart chackra my body forms like a cobra snake.throught chackra my body moves sometimes as a spiyreal move or like a snake.by the 6chackra so often my body rocking back and forth or my head is drowing a circuls.when i reach the crowen chackra one time i had my head forced down wards so strong.and in the second meditation it is always up wards so strong that i feel my throught will be cut from it self so please help me is good or bad
These movements you are experiencing are being caused by an increased flow of your inner energy - your "chi" - to the degree that your body has to move to facilitate this increase. It is best if this energy flow is not increased so much that your body has to make these movements to accommodate it.
Here's what I suggest: • You did not say how long your meditations are, but if they are longer than 20 minutes, cut back to 20 minutes maximum.
• If you are making more than about 50% effort to concentrate, decrease the effort you are making to a maximum of about 50% - i.e. make only a "medium effort" to focus.
When working with chakras, everything should be done gently and gradually.
I am practicing mindfulness of breath exercise. Recently, I have read several books on this subject, and their diverse instructions raised some questions regarding the actual practice:
1,For instance, some of the books suggested that, in the beginning of the practice, one should focus on ‘estimating’ the length of each out/in breath without paying attention to other qualities of the breath (such as its coarseness/lightness or the tactile sensations caused by the breath). According to these books, one should start with observing the duration of each breath, and only later on (when the mind is sufficiently focused), one should proceed to observe the ‘whole breath’(its beginning/middle/end, the pause between the in and out-breath, and the other qualities). Is it correct to do the exercise this way? (to start with only focusing on the length of the breath)
2, One book suggested that, while doing the practice, one should not pay too much attention to the particular/distinct sensations of the breath, such as its temperature its coarseness/lightness,or the physical sensations caused by the breath and focus rather on the ‘continuous perception’ of the breath. (( This is rather strange, because I thought that the purpose of the exercise is to mildly focus on such qualities of the breathing.))
3, In one book, I have read that, earlier on, one can focus on the phases of the breath (its beginning,middle,end or the pause between). However, later, this should be dropped, and the breathing should be regarded as a continuous process with no distinct boundaries between the in and out-breath. Based on this, I have the following question: Should I focus more, in the beginning, on such distinct phases such as the beginning or end of the breath, and later drop this and begin regarding the breath as having no distinct boundaries (between in and out breath), and begin paying equal attention to ‘all unique moments’ of the breathing? Or, alternatively, can I skip the part, when I focus more on the more distinguishable phases (beg/middle/end), and pay equal attention to all unique moments of the breathing from the begining?
(Interestingly, even when I regard the breath as continuous, I can still perceive it as having phases with somewhat distinct boundaries. For instance, the pause following the out-breath is always noticeable. Is this a problem?)
Do you happen to have some insights concerning the above mentioned questions? Thanks in advance for clearing things up a bit.
If you are simply trying to become more mindful of your breathing, then any of these teachings are okay to practice. However, "Mindfulness Meditation" is ultimately about developing an awareness that goes far beyond just the breath.
Its larger aim is to become more conscious of everything that occurs in our field of awareness, and to cultivate a calm, spacious, non-judging awareness that ultimately becomes an integral part into our everyday experience.
Somehow, various teachings have narrowed in on all the little mechanics of observing the breath, and I suppose this can have its benefits. But when I teach Mindfulness Meditation as a practice for becoming more mindful - in the larger sense - I suggest simply focussing on the whole breath coming in and going out, without being concerned about the details. This serves as a starting point, giving the attention something on which to rest. From there, the attention expands, gradually becoming more aware of everything arising in ones field of awareness.
Thank you for the quick reply. I would like to add few details to my prev post. I am practicing a specific 'breath awareness' exercise, which involves focusing solely on the breath. As far as I know, there are 2 different kinds of 'breaths awareness' exercise in Buddhist tradition:
1, There is the vipassana (insight) method, where the focus is not strictly fixed on the breath. It is more like trying to be aware of the totality of experience, while using the breath as an 'anchor'. For instance, if a distraction (a thought, a feeling, ...) arises, the meditator tries to be aware of the nature of this distraction (while it is present in the mind), while remaining aware of the breath as well. In this way, he/she can develop mindfulness of the whole field experiences.
2, In contrast to the 'vipassana' method, when one practices the 'samadhi' method, the mind is more like being fixed solely on the breath, with a kind of one-pointedness'. Here, the focus is solely the sensations of the breath, and not the totality of ones experiences. The 'samadhi' method also handles distractions a bit differently than the 'vipassana' method.
Currently, I am practicing to master the samadhi method, where I observe 'one-pointedly' the sensations of the breath at the tip of the nose (I do not follow the whole course of the breath in my body). The questions in my prev post referred to this method of 'observing the breath'. I would like to put together a valid 'samadhi' practice. However, due to the questions concerning the practice (these are mentioned in my prev post), I am not sure how to do the (samadhi) exercise properly. Thanks once more for answering.
Thanks for the clarification. As you can see, my teaching leans more toward vipassana, so I suggest you find someone to address your questions with more expertise in the samadhi method.
I do have one bit of advice for you though: It's best to not attach the notion of "properly" and "improperly" too strongly to meditation practice.
There are various possibilities regarding why you might be avoiding meditation. Here is a list of the most common "meditation derailers." I suggest you go through the list and see which one - or ones - seem to ring true for you.
1. Unconscious resistance to growth and change
I've discovered this to be the biggest stumbling block students generally have, in regards to staying with a meditation practice. You will, at times, find yourself resisting meditation. The resistance to meditation may be conscious, but the underlying reason - resistance to change - is likely to remain unconscious. This may lead you to begin devising a variety of creative ways to avoid meditating... distractions that seem perfectly reasonable at the time.
This dynamic is mostly due to an inner force we all have within us that resists growth and change. We also have a force within us which gently urges us to grow and make positive changes in our lives. I suggest you simply be aware of the resistant force, and rather than giving in to it, follow the positive evolutionary force within you.
2. Not committing to making time to meditate
3. Not experiencing dramatic results immediately
4. Thinking that you aren't doing it right
5. Detoxification - Clearing stored up physical-emotional toxins
Meditation clears away the residue of unresolved stressful and traumatic experiences which have become stored in the body and mind as physical-emotional toxins. If you find that you are releasing these toxins - "detoxing" - in meditation, or outside of meditation, be aware that a very valuable healing process is occurring and will pass shortly, leaving you free of these limiting negative energies.
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«Oldest ‹Older 601 – 800 of 1042 Newer› Newest»This transmit helped me in my college assignment. Thanks Alot
You're welcome. Happy to hear it.
Dear Jim,
Thank you very much for your answer on my experience (verge of samadhi) and on my letter about feeling hate and guilt (detoxification).
Your help is always very great for my motivation and courage to keep meditating and see life in a more spiritual way.
When we heal ourselves through meditation, will we also be able to heal others? Maybe by being present with them? I have a private life and a job where I enjoy being with other people ... and some of them could use some healing (I think we all could use some healing to some degree).
Regards
When you meditate regularly, you do become a clearer instrument for the healing light to come through you. Consequently, your presence will have a natural, gentle healing effect on others. I am not speaking of dramatic miracle healings (although anything is possible). I am speaking of radiating more of the healing life force, which has a subtly uplifting and therapeutic effect on those around you, both physically and emotionally.
However, if you choose, you can learn certain methods which you can use to concentrate and direct this energy for the specific purpose of healing others.
I'm 16 and i've decided i want to start meditating to have better control of myself and my mind but i'm curious and unsure of a lot of things regarding meditation. I tried it yesterday and i found my eyes started to twitch and try open themselves which i found frightening and stopped because of it i was wonder is that normal? Once i stopped i had a very sharp pain in the center of my forehead for a while and i was wondering is this too normal? I also seem to have problems visualizing during meditation like if they tell me to imagine a stairs i can't or if i can i can't hold the image for very long. I also them was on forums and heard of people seeing demons and i'm frightened as i don't want to be possessed. I want to meditate to contact my guardian angle as well but i'm afraid i'll end up seeing a demon. I understand that this is a religious thing but since i saw it mentioned on several forums about meditation it didn't seem to bee to unusual. I want to become a better person and find inner peace and allow myself to become my personal best but i'm quite frightened of the journey ahead as it seems so uncertain and unclear. How do i know meditation is for me? Will it make me lose touch with my spirituality (in a religious sense) i'm not overly religious but i do pray and believe in God and i'm afraid this will be going against God in some way or make me lose touch with him and my previous form of prayer.
My apologies for the long question its just i'm very unsure of a lot of things and i can't seem to get straight answers anywhere. And last but i guess most importantly i don't really know how to meditate, since on the internet there is guided and just music and then chanting or pure silence and then types for chakras or healing or contacting spirit guides so i don't really know which type is for me.tips or ways would be good maybe their is a certain way for beginners or something?
Thanks in advance
Hello Molly...
That is a lot of questions, isn't it? :-) I'll try to touch on as many as I can.
First, meditation is very safe if you follow the simple guidelines that you'll find on these 3 pages.
• General Info (just the "General Guidelines for Meditation" section)
• 8 Important Meditation Points
• FAQs Room (just the "Frequently Asked Questions" section)
With meditation it's best to keep it simple, so here is a very simple meditation that you can use to get started. Just follow the narrative on the video, and accept whatever happens.
• Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness Meditation
The twitching in your eyes and the sensations in your head were caused by an increased flow of your inner spiritual energy, which is ok and natural and nothing to worry about. However, you will be less likely to experience any uncomfortable sensations if are not trying too hard to concentrate.
One of the great things about meditation is that you do not have to be good at it to get results. Yes, with time and experience it will become easier to stay focussed and to imagine things like your guardian angel. But the only thing really necessary to get results is simply doing it regularly - about 15 minutes daily if possible.
Will meditation cause you to lose touch with your spirituality? No... meditation helps people deepen their spirituality. It is also likely that it will help you understand your own religion more deeply. You might say that we were given this simple exercise of meditation to help us reconnect with that infinite spirit we call God.
How can you know if meditation is for you? The only way you can know that is to try it... not just for a day or two, but for a long enough time to start seeing the positive results in your life. Some results become noticeable fairly quickly, but generally the profound growth brought about by meditation happens gradually.
I wish you much light on your journey, Jim
Do we need intructor to learn meditation? I have try to pratice meditation but not successful. My mind cannot relax and get lazy. what is the method and time for us to meditate? Please advice. Thank you very much.
Hello Mabel...
One of the most important things to understand about meditation is that there is no such thing as "successful" or "unsuccessful" meditation. Simply "doing it" will produce results - some fairly quickly, and some more gradually.
It is helpful to have an instructor, but it is not absolutely necessary. I've created the Online Meditation Center so that people can easily learn to meditate when there is no instructor available. To get started, I suggest you first read these 3 pages:
• General Info (just the "General Guidelines for Meditation" section)
• 8 Meditation Points
• FAQs (just the "Frequently Asked Questions" section)
Then try one of these 3 meditations, or try all 3 and continue with whichever one you like best:
• Mindfulness Meditation
• Inner Light Meditation
• Universal Mantra Meditation
When you sit to meditate, I suggest you put aside all expectations about what is "supposed to" happen... and simply accept whatever does happen. It doesn't take much effort. Just go through the steps with medium effort and let the relaxation happen on its own.
Hı Jım
I am practıcıng breath awareness medıtatıon. Lately, the act of 'swallowıng' has become a bıt dısturbıng. Sometımes I am not aware of ıt, and I swallow automatıcly.The problem ıs that often I do not do ıt automatıcly, but I become conscıously aware of the 'need to swallow'. I try to pay no attentıon to ıt, but ıt´s not always workıng.
1, Should I swallow whenever I feel the need?(Thıs could lead to too frequent swallowıng)
2, Or should I resıst the 'need to swallow'(only a lıttle), and when ıt becomes a bıt uncomfortable, do the swallowıng? (Thıs way I mıght be able to avoıd too frequent swallowıng) Thıs ıs the same approach, whıch I use when my body ıs ıchıng somewhere. I resıst ıt a lıttle, and when ıt becomes unconfortable, I scratch ıt lıghtly.
Whıch of the 2 above ıs better, ıf I want to cultıvate a calm/deep medıtatıve state.
Thanks for the reply
I suggest you treat the need to swallow like anything else that is other than your breath... thoughts, sensations, etc. Try not to think of it as a distraction. Instead, give it the space to be there, and whenever you feel the need to swallow, do it mindfully and then come back to your breathing.
Dear Jim,
I would love to learn methods for directing the life force for the purpose of healing others. And I'm also very happy to hear, that when healing ourselves through meditation, we will also radiate the healing energy more.
I have searched some of the web to see if there is any similarities in the descriptions of methods. And many places tell about the hand chakras and how to open them by visualising light in the palms and also feel the warmth there. A few places have deepened this by saying that one should receive universal light through the crown chakra, letting it be intensified through the heart chakra, then sending this energy out through the arms down to the hands - and then place the hands above the crown chakra on him or her, that we want to heal.
I'm working with children, and I would LOVE to learn to concentrate the healing force for the purpose of helping some of those children. But also in general I would be glad to learn.
Do you have any comments or words that can point me in a direction?
Regards, Thomas
Hello Thomas...
There are numerous techniques for directing the healing force. If the intention is good, and the individual using the method is a reasonably clear channel, then most any of them can be effective. On this page you can find a very simple, fundamental method for directing healing energy.
Energy Healing
One of the most accessible energy healing methods is "Reiki." If you wish to explore it, there are teachers practically everywhere.
Dear Jim
i wrote the previous post about swallowing
if i understand your words correctly, whenever
i feel the need to swallow, i dont have to resist itt
(not even for a little time) and i can swallow consciously when i feel the need. In addition, it is not a problem, if i swallow a bit too often.
Yes, that's correct. It's not a problem unless you think of it as a problem.
Hi Jim
I would like to ask a question concerning distractions during meditation.
I am practicing breath awareness. Sometimes during the session, I experience various sensations like iching or I just feel the need to move my arms or legs a bit.
I use the following approach to deal with such distractions:
For instance, when some part of my body is iching, I do not react to it right away. I wait a little, and if the sensation remains or becomes unconfortable, I scratch it lightly.
I am doing this because if I were to react to every small sensation immediately it could lead to a stage when my subconscious would plague my meditation with small disrtactions frequently, and I would be moving and fidgeting constantly during the session which would prevent me from staying in meditative state.
Thats why I wait a little (only a little and I do it with minimal effort) and if the sensation remains or becomes stronger only then I react to it.
Could you please tell me if my approach is right?
Thanks in advance
There really is no right or wrong, regarding this sort of thing. If that is what works best for you, then it's certainly ok.
Dear Jim and the anonymous who talked about swallowing,
I have had this problem too. It lasted only a few days, but it was really much swallowing - non-stop! I think it was a minor road block of "Oh no, what can possibly disturb my meditation??". But - as said - soon it passed ... :-) So, the best to you and your meditation practice.
Regards,
Thomas
Thanks Thomas.
I have meditating for about 6 months, at least one hour a day. For the past 3 weeks, my head has been feeling very tight. It feels like someone put pressure on the top of my head, or I am wearing a tight helmet, or sometimes someone is pulling my hair up, or something is running inside of my upper head, sometime I feel very my head is stuffed. I feel this all the time except I am asleep. What is it?
Your meditation is causing more energy to flow through the energy circuits in your head than those circuits can handle. I suggest you decrease your meditation time to 20 minutes a day - max. The pressure should subside in a few days to a week.
If it does not, feel free to get back to me with a clear description of the meditation method you are using and the degree of effort you are putting forth to concentrate.
• I recently started meditating, but I find it hard to do without listening to music like the Solfeggio Arpeggio or other meditation music on you tube, so to reach the perfect meditation, does it have to be in silence, or can I do it listening to whatever music I see applicable?
• Does meditation have any dangers?
• Is meditation a way to reach astral projection?
• Can meditation stages be achieved with dancing to meditation music?
Q. I recently started meditating, but I find it hard to do without listening to music like the Solfeggio Arpeggio or other meditation music on you tube, so to reach the perfect meditation, does it have to be in silence, or can I do it listening to whatever music I see applicable?
A. First, it's important to understand that there is no such thing as "perfect meditation."
If you find that music enhances your meditation, then it's fine to have some quiet music in the background. However, using music to drown out thoughts is not helpful for meditation.
Q. Does meditation have any dangers?
A. Over-meditating can trigger some uncomfortable symptoms. For most individuals, 20 minutes once a day, or about 15 minutes twice a day is a good, safe time-frame. Other than that, if you follow some standard, sensible guidelines meditation is quite safe.
Q. Is meditation a way to reach astral projection?
A. It can be used for that, but that's not really one of the main purposes of meditation.
Q. Can meditation stages be achieved with dancing to meditation music?
A. You can achieve some elevated states in this way, but it generally dis-allows one from going deep within.
I've just read my first book on meditation and it gives the clear impression that one must believe in life after death and reincarnation in order to benefit from the practice of meditation. Is this true?
No, there is no truth to that. No particular belief is needed in order to benefit from meditation. The only thing that's necessary is doing it.
Hello sir!
Would you advice on any mudras during meditation? Is gyan "better" than dhyan, or is there some sort of differences or relationship between different mudras to be conscious about?
There is really no single mudra that is right or best for all individuals at all times. Therefore, I suggest you go with what feels most natural and effective at any given time.
You might consider it an exercise in tuning in to your intuition and the subtle energy flows which mudras affect. Just trust your feeling, and release any concerns about the results or getting it right.
Hello Jim
It's me the EFT follow again. I was hoping to could asnwer a question for me, I ask you becaues your the only one I know who will give a strait honest answer without trying to sell something.
anyway, i've been tapping on a issue about letting go and forgiveing a person who i felt betrayed by. I've been tapping so much when my mind brings up some of those thoughts no pain or hurt comes up at all.
however, there are other issues that come up and they hurt as well. I feel like I'm stumbling and rolling back down the hill when this happens. I'm not sure if it's just the eft is digging up a deeper problem or what.
also, do you know who to use eft in install more positive beleives? I'm especially trying to tapp on leting go and detaching from the worry and fear on things that my mind wants to bring up at random.
thanks
Your feeling is most likely correct that you are "digging up a deeper problem." We generally have many layers of issues buried in our psyches, so the clearing process involves peeling away all these various layers. Not usually much fun, but a very positive thing, so it's good that you are willing to go on that healing journey.
I can't give you any tapping tips for instilling positive beliefs, but I expect you can find some on the various EFT sites or forums.
Thought I would comment and say neat theme, did you make it for yourself? It's really awesome!
Thanks... This blog sort of came about organically as a result of the various questions I receive via The Online Meditation Center.
Dear Jim
I have been practicing mindfullness of the breath for a while and I am not sure about something relating to the way you observe the breath.
During the session, I focus on the sensations caused by the breath around the abdomen (I find it more natural for me to observe this particular area than to follow the whole course of the breath). While focusing on this spot, I am aware of 2 kinds of sensations:
1, Those which are directly caused by the breath as it enters/leaves my body (the rise and fall of my abdomen, the pressure of the air, ...).
2, I am also aware of the sensation of the clothes touching my skin (especially during inbreath when my abdomen rises).
During the exercise, I only focus on the sensations directly caused by the breath(1,), and do not pay attention to the sensations caused by my clothes. However, because both kinds of sensations occur at (nearly) the same place, I am also aware to a certain degree of the sensations caused by my clothes.
(I am not focusing on them. I just stay aware of them because of their close proximity)
Is it all right if I meditate the above mentioned way?
(After all if you follow the whole course of the breath, you also do not focus on the sensation caused by your clothes.)
Is it all right if I remain aware of the sensation caused by my clothes?
(I am not focusing on them. I just stay aware of them because of their close proximity)
Thanks in advance for the explanation
Yes... that's fine. One aspect of Mindfulness Meditation is the expansion of awareness. So as you continue to practice, even though the breath may remain your primary object of focus, your awareness will gradually expand to encompass all that is in your sphere.
Dear Jim
I wrote the previous comment
During the breath awareness meditation, i focus
on the sensations caused by the breath in my abdomen. I focus only on the sensations caused directly by the movement of the air(the rise and fall of the abdomen, the pressure of the air ...).
Sometimes i feel a little pain or strain in this area during each inbreath.
Is it allright if i focus onthis pain just as i focus on the "rise and fall of the abdomen"?
(after all this little pain is also caused by the breath)
I disreagard only those sensations which are not caused directly by the breath, like the feeling of my clothes, or some other kind of sensation around my abdomen
(i stay aware of them but do not focus on them because they are not directly caused by the breath)
thanks for answering
your site is great help for those who does not have their own meditation teacher
Yes, it's fine to focus on this. When making these choices, you might ask yourself, "What am I trying to accomplish through my meditation?"
If your main goal is relaxation and stress reduction, then focussing on anything related to your breathing will be sufficient. However, if you are attempting to expand your awareness and become more mindful, then widening your focus - as your current question describes - can be helpful.
Sorry... don't have a clue.
"...Yes, it's fine to focus on this. When making these choices, you might ask yourself, "What am I trying to accomplish through my meditation?..."
My aim is to reach a calm and reasonably deep meditative state.
I am focusing only on those sensations which are caused directly by the breath (The rise and fall of my abdomen, the pause between the breaths, the little strain caused by the pressure of the air. I might be aware of other sensations as well, but I do not focus on these (I simply accept their presence).
Is it possible to reach a deeper meditative state this way?
Thanks for clarifying this
Yes, you can experience calm and deep states in this way. However, because there are so many factors effecting each meditation session, you are likely to discover that - regardless of your approach - the depth of your meditations will vary from day to day.
Hello Jim
it's EFT guy again. I was doing some meditating and I had a type of realization.
see I've been using EFT for detachment and letting go. and it occured to me that inner resistance, fear and attachment are from the same fabric.
that our inner resistance, fear and self doubts are a form of attachment to certain things.
any thoughts on that?
Yes... Very insightful and valuable realization.
Dear Jim,
When you write (to another visitor, not me) that:
"If your main goal is relaxation and stress reduction, then focussing on anything related to your breathing will be sufficient. However, if you are attempting to expand your awareness and become more mindful, then widening your focus - as your current question describes - can be helpful."
...Then I get confused: I am doing breath meditation. But will this "only" lead to relaxation, not spiritual awakening?
Not at all. That answer was referring to a specific dynamic of training the mind. Virtually any "traditional" form of meditation can lead to spiritual awakening.
Dear Jim,
My question relates to Mindfulness meditation. We are told to observe the breath and if the mind wanders, to concentrate on the breath the return to the relaxed state. Does this mean that we never meditate on a specific subject or emotion, thought or feeling as they arise in the mind. Or are we always only concentrating on the breath throughout our meditation studies.
Many Thanks
Terry
Hello Terry...
It is not an absolute rule that focussing on the breath is the only way to practice Mindfulness Meditation. The breath just happens to be an easy and effective place to begin.
You might stay with the breath, or you might find your focus changing at times, to one of the things you mentioned... especially if you intuitively feel it would be beneficial in some way.
Or you may, over time, notice your focus expanding to encompass all of these... breath, thoughts, and feelings.
It might help to look at the bigger picture, regarding two of the primary purposes of Mindfulness Meditation (aside from relaxation).
1. Mindfulness trains you to develop a calm, non-judging awareness with which to be fully present with - but not enmeshed in - whatever is going on in the moment.
2. With continued practice, you discover that the calm awareness with which you perceive your breath, thoughts, etc., is in itself the core of your being... your innermost essence.
Given that, there is much room for flexibility with the method as your practice deepens.
Hi Jim,
Many thanks for your very clear answer that had been bothering me for a while. Could I also ask, if we do not meditate on specific thoughs or feelings, how then do we deal with negative emotions like anger,fear and depression that we are trying to eliminate.
If you could recommend a book that deals with such a subject I would be very grateful.
Regards
Terry
Hello Terry...
This is a good example, regarding one of the suggestions from my answer to your previous question: "...you might find your focus changing at times, to one of the things you mentioned... especially if you intuitively feel it would be beneficial in some way."
When a negative emotion, memory, etc. is ready to be healed/resolved, it will come up during your meditation and sort of get in your face. When this occurs, you will know that focussing your "neutral attention" on it is what is needed for the healing to occur.
Here are some books you might check out: "A Gradual Awakening" by Stephen Levine and "Wherever You Go There You Are" by Jon Kabat Zinn.
I don't recall if they deal directly with this exact subject, but I think they will shed some light in it for you.
Hi Jim,
Thank you very much for your time in answering my questions.
Regards
Terry
You're quite welcome.
Hello jim
I have a delemia when it comes to letting go.
it is totally nessesary to forget and not think about our subject at all.
or is it alright to think about what w'ere trying to let go of when and if it comes up in our minds?
I have a subject I'm trying to let go of, there are times when im able to and their are other times when it's all thats on my mind.
thank you
It is not nesessary to refrain from thinking about what you are trying to let go of, and not likely that you would be able to totally and willfully put it out of your mind anyway. What is important in this process is not allowing your mind to cling to it.
One thing I suggest is that you take a little time in meditation to simply observe how your mind works with whatever you are trying to let go of. Just watch how it comes into your mind... how it grabs your attention... and how your mind can hold onto it, gnawing on it like a dog with a bone.
Once you are familiar with how your mind works with such thoughts, it is easier to take specific steps to let go. Here are some suggestions for doing this:
• You can re-direct your attention to something else - something equally or more "fascinating" - for your mind to dwell on.
• You can imagine your mind as an energy field - which it is - then breathe and gently expand the energy so that the unwelcome thoughts can flow on through.
• If it is based on a particular situation, you can turn the situation over to a "higher intelligence" - your Higher Self, Universal Mind, or whatever - and trust that it will be worked out.
The ability to let go of thoughts which the mind is clinging to, not only reduces the stress level greatly, but is an important step on the path of awakening.
thanks for your response JIm. I recently got this book called "inner game of tennis"
the author talks about the zen of playing tennis. letting go and getting the ego out of the way by focusing on the present moment by breathing or focusing on the ball or something else.
having the intention to do what your doing and trusting your subconcious mind to carry it out for you.
is it possible to live in a contant state of present moment awareness tha tgets our ego to try trying to control us? I mean I know our ego is important and has a purpose, I just enjoy the feeling of living without my ego nagging me, it's like I have a totally new out look of life.
Yes, it is most certainly possible. Living in a state of being fully present, beyond ego, is one of the primary goals of the spiritual journey. This generally unfolds gradually, and when the ego has fulfilled its purpose, it then falls away like a snake shedding its skin.
I have been meditating now for about a fortnight i did start 8 months ago but found i didnt find time now i have stuck to it the longest i have meditated for in one session is 1 hour 45 minutes i find it has helped with my stress which was very high but now i feel a calm with in me that a diazapam could never do.I hope i can find your cd over here which is wales briton
Hi jim I just want to say how helpful meditating has been for me as i have has emotional break downs and suffer bad stress but since i have been doing this i have found a great calm and my brain has slowed down so much my thinkin is more clear and see things in there rite perspective i feel great.I am so glad i came accross this site.I meditate now for 1 hour 45 mins and love it thanks jim. take care dai from south wales briton
Hello Daio...
I'm happy to hear how beneficial meditation has been for you. I appreciate your good feedback... thanks. Feel free to keep me updated on how your practice is going.
Hello Jim,
Thank you for all of the wonderful information you have provided through your website. I am hoping you have an answer to a question I have had for many years.
When my body is fully relaxed, I am able to will myself to relax further into a kind of "active relaxation." This causes a feeling of vertigo most strongly felt in my limbs. The feeling is very intense and can only be maintained for a few moments at a time, but can be repeated over and over. The depth of intensity is easy to control. The feeling has a negative aspect to it that is like my body becoming too sensitive. I can do this at will any time as long as I am not flexing the muscles. This is something I have been able to do since I was a child. When meditating, which I have only been doing for three weeks, this "active relaxation" greatly deepens the state of meditation and brings on the shaking that is described throughout your website. Do you know what this active relaxation might be?
Thank you,
Doug
Hello Doug...
Your experience is the result of inadvertently focussing on your vital-etheric body. This body is composed of a subtler energy than your physical body, and provides the energy template for your physical body, as well as the network of channels through which the vital force - or chi - flows in order to enliven your body.
Focussing on this subtle body tends to stimulate it, creating a kind of internal heat, which can lead to certain imbalances in your energy system and its natural healthy flow of vital energy. For that reason, I suggest you discontinue this practice.
Most often when I envision someone meditating, they have their legs crossed with a foot on top of each knee, and both hands resting on each knee facing up. Is there a particular reason for meditating in that position?
Yes... One reason is that the "lotus position" - which is what you are describing - helps one keep the posture straight without leaning on anything, thus allowing the spiritual energy to flow freely through the spine.
Another reason for this somewhat austere position is to help one develop a degree of mastery over the body, if one is meditating primarily as a spiritual discipline.
There are various possible hand positions - aka mudras - and the one you are describing represents a receptivity to the cosmic energies.
You can try sitting in the lotus position if you wish - and if you are young :) - but having done it myself early on in my meditation practice, I've found that what little advantage you gain isn't worth the pain. Consequently, for most people, I recommend sitting comfortably, while still keeping the spine reasonably straight.
Hi there found your web site and like its feel and thank you for having a place where you dont have to log in to ask questions.
I am a beginner and as such have all sorts of questions.
So here goes with a couple to start with
1) sometimes I seem to be meditating ie some thoughts running through my mind and also brief moments of calmness I then notice as the light patterns in te inside of my eyelids or inner screen as youd describe it then often my eyes appear to have opened very slightly and let light in, I dont know if I should then open my eyes or not or what is happening.
2) Astral travel and etheric travel are these the same thing and does this come with working with the chakras.
3) when meditating - light inner meditation - are you trying to percieve as you say the chakra's. Do you try and focus your thoughts on the region of the chakra you are trying to percieve ? apologies as i dont quite understand, and by meditating on the chakra it helps that energy flow better?
4) Are the chakras the same as the earth, air, water and fire elementals?
1. If your eyes want to open a bit, it's ok to allow it to happen. This is usually caused by your inner energy - aka chi - moving upward. Chances are they will close again after awhile.
2. Astral and etheric travel are not directly related to working with the chakras. Astral travel and etheric travel are similar, in that with each, part of your spirit leaves your physical body. However, in etheric travel your spirit enters the etheric plane, which is just slightly higher in vibrational frequency than the physical plane, and in astral travel, your spirit moves into the astral plane, which is a higher vibrational frequency than the etheric plane.
Also, in etheric travel, even though you are out of your body, your surroundings are still mainly the physical world. While during astral travel, your surroundings are the astral plane, which is significantly different from the physical world.
3. When practicing the Inner Light Meditation, you are focussing on the light behind your eyelids and lower brow, or simply the serene darkness in this region. Although this meditation gradually opens the 6th chakra - aka the 3rd eye - there is no need to think about chakras while practicing it.
4. No, the chakras are not the same as the 4 elements. The chakras are essentially composed of etheric matter.
I have started reading about mindfulness meditation recently. I am having trouble understanding how not to try to suppress random thoughts and wanderings while trying to be in the moment. I have become acutely aware of how my mind wanders of almost all the time and it is very irritating.
The key to this is acceptance. Simply accept that your mind is going to create thoughts, and that those thoughts are going to get your attention... frequently. This is the case with nearly all beginning meditators.
As you proceed, you will discover that there will be days when there are less thoughts and your mind doesn't wander as much. And with time and experience, staying focussed will become easier and less of an issue.
I suggest you simply focus on your breathing with "medium effort," bring your attention back to your breath whenever you notice it has drifted off, and accept that this is ok and that you will still get good results even with a wandering mind.
Hello...my name is John. I recently returned from a year long journey to Asia in which I participated in a few meditation retreats. While staying at monastery in Sri Lanka, I began to experience shortness of breath and fatigue. This was about five months ago. I returned home to California about two months ago and have seen medical professionals. As of yet, a diagnosis has not been made. They feel I may have Tropical Pulmonary Eosinophilia, a disease endemic to South Asia. I am considering seeing an acupuncturist or a somatic healer. Meditation has been very difficult for several months now. Do you have any suggestions?
Hello John...
There are many ways to meditate, so if your breathing problem is making meditation difficult, I suggest you try a method that does not include focussing on the breath. You might try this mantra meditation in which your breathing does not have to be involved at all.
Jim-
Could you share some ways to practice letting go and detaching.
I expeirneced this feeling of having let go and it was great.
I wanted to know if their is a way i can practice it out side meditation.
whenever i try to find it on the web, people just talk about how we need to let go and thats it
There is no exact formula for this, but there are some techniques that can be very helpful for letting go. First, though, it will be helpful to understand that your mind is actually an energy field. When you are clinging to something, such as a worry, anger, resentment, an object, relationship, etc., it is essentially your mental energy field contracting around the idea of whatever it is, in order to hold on to it.
To let go, it is necessary for your mental energy field to expand a bit, which basically equates to relaxing your mind. The principle is: contraction = tension = holding on... while, expansion = relaxation = letting go.
• One technique that makes use of this principle is to mentally repeat the phrase "Let go" as you breath in and out. "Let" as you inhale... "go" as you exhale. You will notice that exhaling is a distinctly relaxing and letting go motion. So as you exhale and repeat "go," feel yourself and your mind relaxing, expanding and letting go.
• Technique 2: Whenever you notice yourself clinging to some thought or stressful situation, etc., gently expand and relax your mental energy field, with the clear intention of releasing whatever you may be holding on to. If you can't directly perceive your mental energy field, then simply imagine it as a whispy cloud or mist, and then imagine it expanding slightly.
HI there Jim,
It’s me the beginner (5th Oct)
Thank you for replying to my questions. I have started to read a book on the chakra's to try and gain an understanding of how you know you are awakening and working with them. Should you work form the base chakra upwards one at a time and not move up until you are fully aware that it is open or should you work in turn a little at a time with each one. Also I know it varies with each person but in general do you actually perceive the chakra with the mind’s eye as spinning colour type discs?
When it comes to working with the chakras, there is no particular order that should be followed. Therefore, I suggest you follow your intuition, as well as paying special attention to those chakras which represent the biggest stumbling blocks in your life.
Inwardly you can visualize them as colored spinning discs. However, unless your inner senses are highly developed, you will be "imagining" them more than directly "perceiving" them, and that's fine. To an individual who can actually "see" them, they appear as colored spinning wheels of light, but the colors are generally not the way they are typically portrayed, i.e. 1 - red, 2 - orange, etc.
Dear Jim,
I am 62 years old and have been meditating for several years. I was taught to meditate with my eyes half closed, but find that I can't focus well that way and always end up closing my eyes. Is this acceptable? Also, as I'm a bit stiff, I sit on the edge of an armless chair. Is that ok over the long haul, or should I strive to increase flexsbility and sit on the floor?
Thank you for your time. Wonderful site!
Hi Joe...
Yes, it's fine to meditate with your eyes closed. Whatever works best and feels most natural to you is good. Same with your sitting position... I suggest going with whatever you find works best for you. It's ok to be comfortable when you meditate. In my early meditation days I experimented with various sitting positions and discovered my meditations were just as effective - and more enjoyable - when I was sitting comfortably.
Hello Jim... Are you familiar with the race car driver Jim Malloy who died in car crash in 1972? I discovered this from googling your name. Strange... with what had happened to Dan Wheldon recently. We can only wish that Jim Malloy and Dan Wheldon passed onto joyful rebirths. Anyway, I wrote you a while back about having difficulties breathing with meditation. These have cleared, but now there are strong muscle spasms in the lower back and torso region. Suppose there just energy releases, but it can be difficult to meditate because of them. Do you have suggestions? Blessings...
Yes, I know of him... but nothing beyond his name, occupation and cause of death.
Good to hear that your breathing problems have passed. The spasms are probably the release of blocked energies in that region, but without further info, such as history of back pain, current and ongoing stressors in your life, and types of physical activity you are engaged in, I can only say "probably."
If it is simply an energy release, I suggest you accept it as part of your meditation process (for now), and allow it to proceed until you are free of these blocked energies and the situation passes.
However, if it does not pass in a couple of weeks, you might consider having it checked out by a qualified acupuncturist.
Thank you for your consultation, Jim. Blessings...
You're welcome... and blessings to you as well.
I started meditation five years ago, watching my breath 45 minutes each morning and also small sessions of 20 minutes in the afternoon and night. I have now considerable control over myself and am generally happy and content. However, there are still occassions when I lose control over myself and shout at my wife or daughter, over which they insist on telling me that all my meditation is a wasted effort. I wonder how many more years to go before I totally stop having such embarassing moments.....
There is no actual time-frame for this... but there are some things you might find helpful to understand, regarding how to deal with it.
• Some issues can be "meditated away," while others require some other form of processing to complement the healing effects of meditation. In the case of anger/losing ones temper, it may be necessary to gain some understanding of the root of the problem. Your family may only be the trigger for some deeply rooted anger charges from your past. (Families are very good at that.) :-) You might consider exploring the deeper caverns of your psyche for the source of this, via methods such as self reflection, journaling, counseling, etc.
• An important part of mindfulness training involves learning how to accept our negative emotions when they arise, but remaining in a state of non-judging, non-attached awareness, so that we are not compelled to act on them. Supressing or denying anger does not work... but giving it the space to simply be there, and being fully present with it, is a very effective way to diffuse it.
• It's important that you and your family accept your humanness. It's good and necessary to try to refrain from hurtful actions. But at the same time, we are works-in-progress and can only make our best effort to deal with the challenges of physical reality.
• And finally, sometimes meditating for longer periods - such as what you've described - can actually make it more difficult to control anger, irritability and impatience. You might consider cutting back just a bit.
Thanks. Taking you advice, I have cut down my meditations to three smaller sessions, 30 min (morning), 20 min (afternoon) and 10 min (night). Hope it will help. Thanks again.
Hello Jim, Sometimes when I'm sitting in meditation I feel this motion within myself that sets my whole body 'bobbing'. It's usually mild and lasts a few seconds, sometimes longer. I assume it's coming from the chakras as it has a circlular motion to it and starts at different times from various locations along the spine. I'm not sure if there is anything I should be doing when this happens other than ride it out?
Yes, riding it out - and not considering it a distraction - is the best way to deal with it. If your physical body is actually moving, it is moving to facilitate the increased flow of chi moving through your spine. If your physical body only feels like it is bobbing, then it is one or more of your subtler energy bodies moving... most likely your etheric body, which your chakras are a part of.
Im very interested in meditation. I have never tried and had some hang ups about my mind being too busy. I did read all the stuff on the site and know now that shouldnt stop me. I am however a very anxious person and would like to ask if there are ever any risks with deeper states of consciousness and things like that? One concern (that may sound silly) is slipping into one of these states and not being able to quickly "come back" if my toddler wakes up and needs me. What if I find bad things "junking up" the place in my mind and it causes me emotional/mental harm?
If you follow some sensible guidelines, there is nothing to worry about. Those would mainly be: 1. Keep your meditation sessions to 20 minutes or less... and 2. Don't try to force anything to happen.
If you are meditating when your child wakes up, you will be able to return to your "normal" state quickly. However, if you are roused from your meditation very suddenly, you may feel a little bit discombobulated for a few moments.
Sometimes unwelcome memories can surface when one is meditating. But aside from the unpleasantness, unless they relate to extreme trauma that has been deeply suppressed, these memories cannot harm you mentally or emotionally.
Hello jim
I written in before asking you questions about meditation and such
I wanted to share with you something that finally helped me make so much sense out of thing i didn't fully understand.
Have you ever heard of "the Power Of Now"? it teachs people how to be centered and live in the present almost like a constant meditation/centering.
I wanted to sujest it to you and anyone else who may not have read it yet
Yes, I'm familiar with "The Power of Now." Read it several years ago and thought it contained a lot of good info.
Hello Jim,
I´ve been meditating for quite a short time (could be less than a year) but it is quite intense. I mean I never have any visions, I also don´t think that I am able to reach the deep meditative states but still the feelings are quite strong. When meditating for the very first time it popped into my mind that I could concentrate on my heart so I did it and experienced the great feeling of bliss which was so nice and pleasant that it became indeed the main reason why I started practising the meditation every day since that time.
Suddenly it happened to me that I was able to feel the bliss during the day (without the meditation). I stopped meditating after some time as I had to deal with other things like anxiety feelings and brain fog (probably due to stress at work which I was unable to handle but until now I´m not sure if it wasn´t caused or at least increased by the meditation practice). I returned back to it again about three months ago(yet the main reason wasn´t the blissful feeling this time) and then strange thing happened...
While working I suddenly experienced a very strong bliss feeling, it was much stronger than the one I reached during the meditations and lasted for more than a week. One could think that I´m lucky but in fact the bliss was so intense and strong that it was very hard to cope with as sometimes it was kind of unbearable plus I found it really hard to concentrate on other things except the constant bliss. Also, although I was able to feel the bliss over my body, I stayed quite depressed and sad in my mind.
It disappeared suddenly but now it´s back again, not so strong and permanent but that can change I´m sure. I´ve noticed it often shows up after emotional stress. I was searching the info on internet and found that it might be related to the kundalini awakening (which might have happened during my first meditation) or heart chakra opening possibly. However, sometimes I just think I went mad and should see the doctor as besides this I´m still experiencing the brain fogginess and mood swings.
Could you please explain what´s going on with me and hopefully give me an advice how to handle the bliss overload?
I keep meditating (in fact I became very interested in spirituality in general) and also practise the Five Tibetans rites once a day.
Thanks a lot, I will be grateful for your answer.
Anna
Hello Anna...
Your theory is correct that your bliss overload is being caused by an increase in the flow of the energy known as kundalini or shakti, along with a heart chakra opening. You haven't gone mad... you are experiencing an extreme energy rush through your heart center, while this same energy is stirring up a lot of mental and emotional "clearing," which is causing the mood swings and brain fog.
You may be able to regulate the flow of this energy and its effects by the following means...
• Decrease your meditation time by increments. You didn't say how long your sessions are, but if you are meditating more than 20 minutes a day, first cut back to 20 minutes. If that doesn't help, decrease to 15 minutes, and so on.
If you are meditating 20 minutes a day or less, simply keep decreasing in 5 minute increments from where you are. (Decreasing is generally better than stopping completely.)
• It's hard to know if the 5 Tibetan Rites are helping or exacerbating your situation, so I suggest you switch to some very gentle daily yoga exercises for awhile. Not too much and nothing rigorous... maybe 10 - 15 minutes or so.
• Drink some warm water with honey and ginger several times a day.
If this doesn't help in a week or two, please let me know. You can contact me directly at: jmalloy@meditationcenter.com
Hi Jim!
I have a few questions. I have been practicing mindfulness meditation along with "body scan" meditation for a few months now. I have experienced some detox reactions here and there which isn't an issue, since i know it is clearing negative energy.
Ive read about bad experiences with people sparking up too much kundalini energy while medilating. Is it possible to do this while practicing the meditation style I use? I want to avoid this at all costs! If so, what is the safest style of meditation, or what tips can you give to help avoid this?
Last question - I recently dealt with a bad breakup in which my partner cheated on me with several people. Will mindfulness help with the "grieving process?"
Thanks so much! Your insight is greatly appreciated!
Although there are no guarantees, Mindfulness Meditation is about as safe as you can get in regards to avoiding kundalini problems. Body scanning is ok too, providing it is done gently and not overdone.
The best ways to avoid such problems are:
• Don't over-meditate... 20 minutes once a day or 10 to 15 minutes twice a day are good general guidelines for this.
• Don't concentrate too hard or try to force anything to happen in meditation. Focussing with "medium effort" is best.
• Avoid meditation methods that are based on moving energy through the body.
With that said, there are some misconceptions about the energy known as kundalini.
This energy is essentially the life force that runs through and enlivens all of us. The thing to avoid is triggerring a sudden and extreme increase in the flow of this energy. True, this energy is very powerful and should be respected, but we have been gradually evolving our capacity to conduct it over the past few decades, so some of the negative stories you might read about it are not quite as likely to occur nowadays, provided one follows some good common sense guidelines.
Can mindfulness help you with your grieving process? Yes, in the sense that it can help you be present with the pain, without becoming as enmeshed in it or overwhelmed by it as you might be without the calm, detached awareness which Mindfulness helps you develop. The more fully your emotions can be felt - which is the purpose of the grieving process - the more quickly their charge can be released.
Wishing you much light and peace, Jim
Hi Jim,
thank you for answering my previous post, I feel more at ease and relaxed now when knowing my experiences are indeed related to Kundalini. I was wandering when this awakening happened and came to the conclusion it was probably much earlier than my first meditation... Anyway, no matter when it was one thing is clear - it happened suddenly without previous spiritual practice.
In the past few days I read a lot about Kundalini and have to say that I got scared at first as many articles warn against the sudden kundalini awakening stating that such persons often end up in the madhouse (or even commit suicide) and desribing all the worst symptoms related to that. Even various gurus say that Kundalini should be awakened in prepared and highly spiritual person where the whole process is so easy that the energy release and its movement up to the crown chakra is almost unnoticed (as there are no blocks to clear out).
However, when considering that Kundalini can be awakened suddenly and spontaneously after emotional trauma, physical exhaustion, excessive meditation, drug usage, e.g. then I just don´t understand it. I mean it can be very painful and difficult but I believe everything happpens with some reason and if something should happen, then it simply happens. For instance why is this energy released in someone with no knowledge about Kundalini after smoking marijuana(meditating) for the first time while it doesn´t happen to many regular smokers (meditators)? And why it doesn´t work for someone who´s trying hard to achieve it?
And isn´t it always a benefit in the end - no matter how much pain and suffering it may cause until the process is finished?
As for me I have been dealing with constant brain fog for the past year, sometimes I wake up feeling really depressed, get anxious for no good reason or feel terribly lonely, sometimes I´m overloaded with excessive bliss (although it can feel so great that it´s impossible to express) and envy
other people their "normal" lives... But deep inside I know I wouldn´t like my previous life back. Not at all.
Thank you for your answer.
Anna
Hello Anna...
Sounds like you've arrived at a place of "alrightness" with your situation. As mentioned previously, more people are prepared to "safely" conduct this energy now than say 5 or 10 years ago. But you make a good point: There is a profound perfection inherent in the awakening process... And even though we have some choices in the matter, there is a wisdom in it which is beyond our own efforts.
Since you are currently running a lot of this energy, one of the most important things to understand about kundalini is this: It amplifies everything.
Wishing you continued light on your journey, Jim
Hi
I started meditating about 14 months ago. I go to a group meditation about once a month mainly for relaxation. I have found it to be an overwhelming experience and quite often my eyes will continually run during the meditation. My question is, there are things that I have seen in my meditations that I quite often see a few days later. These things are very specific and not the normal everyday things Does this have any relevance?
We generally go through 3 cycles of meditation during the class and talk about what we have experienced after each one. At the last meeting one of my 'colleagues' said that he saw 107 butterflies, he didn't count them but just knew that was how many there were. Two days later I was with a friend we were talking and he said 'i stopped looking after 107' I asked him why he had said this number and he said he had no idea, he was actually thinking of 170. And today, 2 weeks after the meeting, that number has come up again. Again it involved the same friend, who was working and said he had 107 emails to read. Does this have any significance or is it purely coincidence? Thank you for your time
When you see things in meditation that show up afterwards in your outer life, it indicates that during your meditation you are touching on that place where time is not linear - where everything exists simultaneously.
As for the number 107... it may have some personal significance for you or those experiencing it, or it may just be coincidental. The number itself has no universal significance that I am aware of. 108 however, is a very auspicious number in Hinduism, and somewhat significant in Tibetan Buddhism.
Hi Jim
Re 107 - Thank you very much for answering my questions
Best Regards
Sue
Hi Jim,
I have been meditation for more than 10 months without missing a single day. I love to meditate. I started with 15 minutes once a day, increasing to 20 minutes once a day, then 20 minutes twice a day. Then ½ hour twice a day, then 40 minutes twice a day. Now I meditate 1-2 hours a day. I love it. I'm doing breath-awareness meditation. I exercise regularly, eating healthy foods and getting my sleep.
I'm aware of you naming a limit on 1 hour a day for most people, but I really feel for more in my specific case.
My question is:
What are the pros and cons for meditating 2 hours in the morning vs. 1 hour in the morning and 1 hour in the evening?
(For less time the question could be: 1 hour in the morning vs. ½ hour in the morning and ½ hour in the evening?)
Thanks,
Thomas
Hello Thomas...
When you meditate, it's like taking a dip in the light. This light raises your awareness and your vibration, cleanses and heals your physical and emotional self, and nourishes your body, mind and soul.
However, this powerful spiritual light also amplifies everything, including negative energies as it is clearing them away, ones day-to-day moods and reactions, and any unresolved issues and neurosis.
So determining how much meditation is productive and how much it takes to make it counter-productive depends on the point at which this process becomes uncomfortable rather than elevating, and the point at which ones moods, reactions, etc. become mucked up with all the negative "stuff" that is being cleared away.
Experience has shown me that for most people, 20 - 30 minutes once a day, or 15 - 20 minutes twice a day is a safe and reliable "guideline." However, everyone is hardwired a bit differently, so for some, more than this is ok, and for others less is better.
So, given this information, I suggest you monitor yourself honestly to see how much is best for you. Notice things like...
Does your meditation generally elevate your moods, your state of mind, your energy level, your ability to stay clear, calm and patient? (That would be the pros.)
Or are you noticing yourself over-reacting to situations, feeling more moody or irritable, feeling overly sensitive, seeing little neurotic behaviors creeping into your life, feeling physically off, tired or toxic? (The cons.)
If the pros clearly outweigh the cons, then your time-frame is ok. But if the reverse is true, then I suggest you consider cutting back your meditation time.
Thank you very much, Jim :-)
I will monitor myself honestly and closely. I have made the mistake before of turning up the time too much too quickly, which gave me heavy stress symptoms.
But whatever time I decide to set aside a day, what are the pros and cons of either splitting it up in two sittings or taking it all in one sitting?
If for instance I want to meditate one hour a day, should I take a ½ hour dip in the light in the morning and then again ½ hour at night, or should I take the full 1hour just in one sitting?
What are the pros and cons of splitting the time set aside per day up in two halves/two sittings vs. not splitting it up but making the time set aside in one sitting?
Regards,
Thomas
The pros of splitting your meditation into two sessions are:
• Two shorter sessions tend to trigger less detox/stress release
than one longer session.
• Meditating in the morning helps one clear the mind, fuel the brain, and get centered and vitalized for the day... while medtating at night helps one decompress and clear away the stress picked up during the day.
The only downside of doing two sessions is that many people find it difficult to carve out the time for it. Hence, the upside of doing just one session is that it's more convenient for some.
I have been meditating for some time and have had two experiences that seemed quite different and profound but both times I was told that this was not the "path". My mind remains alert and thinking but the rest of the world is not there. No sounds, no feelings of body, just mind floating in darkness. Is this event a "blind alley" or an aberration of some kind to be avoided?
Your experiences were actually very positive... a deep internal state sometimes referred to as "restful alertness."
It is a state of awareness that comes about spontaneously at certain times during meditation - i.e. not something you can make happen - so if an inner voice (or external person) referred to it as a "path," and implied that it was not a desirable state, I would say that it was not trustworthy information and to disregard it.
If this experience - or something similar - occurs again, I suggest you go with it and enjoy it.
helo jim
i have a bit of a dire question to ask. the good news is that I know how to explain this one.
soi've beeing reading and practicing the 7 spirutla laws and recently found the power of now. and I finally get what deepak has been saying wehn he talks abotu detachment.
anyway, i've experienced the bliss and power of now quite a few time after learning about it.
I've also been looking to find other ways I can "live in the moment" but here is where my problem comes in.
Even though I 'know' how to live in and practice the now my 'monkey mind' sometimes bombards me with intense stupid questions like "how do I live in the now? what do I do? blah blah blah"
I know how to practice it, yet my mind keeps asking questions i already know the answer to and it fights so hard for my attention and focus that it drives me almost nuts.
what can I do
In "The Power of Now," Eckhart Tolle gives some very good advice on this exact situation. He suggests that you view and treat this sort of mental chatter as you would a little child who's been going on for hours. Here's one of his quotes on this: "One day you may catch yourself smiling at the voice in your head, as you would smile at the antics of a child. This means that you no longer take the content of your mind all that seriously, as your sense of self does not depend on it."
Hi Jim,
Thank you for your answer on length of meditation.
I honestly feel that 1 hour of meditation is very good, but I really "thirst" for more ("thirst" may be an inappropriate word, because my meditations are very peaceful). I enjoy it so immensily.
IF I'm hardwired to being able to do more thatn 1 hour, will I get any benefits of doing more?
Regards,
Thomas
(who wants to do more)
That would pretty much depend on what you aim to accomplish from your meditation, and what sort of meditation practice you are using to attain that aim.
Dear Jim,
First and foremost I want to enjoy the spiritual dimensions of meditation. And I want to deepen the peace of mind, that I feel when meditation daily. I want enlightenment.
Regards,
Thomas
Hello Thomas...
There is really no absolute guideline regarding whether more meditation - and how much - will further your progress toward enlightenment, or whether more will actually have a reverse effect. You have experienced how it feels to trigger too much chi and consequently too much detox, so when deciding how much to meditate, simply monitor yourself closely and honestly, and use your common sense.
To monitor the ongoing effects of your meditation, ask yourself: Do I feel more peaceful or more agitated, irritable and impatient? Am I experiencing more inner balance or increased mood swings? Am I experiencing more clarity or more mental turbulence? Am I more focussed or more spacy? More grounded and centered or more sensitive and wired? More relaxed and accepting or more neurotic?
If you see the balance shift toward the downside, simply cut back on your meditation time.
If deepened peace and enlightenment is your goal, what I would strongly suggest is incorporating some meditation-in-action techniques into your daily life... methods you can use as you go about your daily activity that will help you integrate and maintain the peace and clarity you experience in meditation into your everyday awareness. These may include: simple breath awareness, mindfulness practices, or the use of mantras to help you maintain your inner connection from moment to moment.
Hello,I have been meditating for about two weeks and felt a great deal of relief since then.but the problem is that those negative feelings for which i started meditation have stated to bother me again and i don't know whether i am releasing these "negative feelings" or they are coming back to me as they used to in the past.I have been severely affected by phobia for 2 years and now i have stated meditation to destroy these fears . I want to know if meditation will help me in destroying my phobias and fears forever?Also ,how much time does it take to get rid of these negative feeling if i meditate regularly. Please help!
When an individual begins meditating, there is often what is called the "honeymoon period," when problems subside and the world looks much brighter. Sometimes it is very brief, sometimes longer, and gives the new meditator a little taste of the possibilities if he or she continues on the path of meditation. Then, as you have experienced, the honeymoon ends and it appears that it's back to the old reality, although on a deep level a new awareness has subtly begun to awaken.
That is not to say that permanent and tangible changes don't occur in the early stages - many little things do tend to change for the better - but the more deep seated problems take longer to resolve than a couple of weeks.
So if you are meditating to heal severe phobias and fears, yes... meditation will help you with this, but realistically it will take a fair amount of time. How long? No one can say, as each individual is different. But things are moving more quickly these days, due to a phase of accelerated evolution we are in. Also, please be aware that for deep seated issues like this, meditation works best when combined with other healing methods, such as psychological counseling or working with a competent professional hypnotherapist.
Wishing you much light on your journey, Jim
Hello Jim,
I have some more questions regarding the kundalini energy: Do you think it's good to help and support the healing process somehow, through various chakras healing focused therapies or even something "ordinary" like psychotherapy e.g., or is it better to leave it as it is and let the energy do its job...?
I think I came to state when I am grateful that I was given such an opportunity to grow and would even like to speed up the process a little bit, but the truth is that sometimes my negative symptoms get so bad that it's really hard for me to be able to do my job without getting extremely tired and exhausted. While the mental symptoms like deppression or mood swings faded away more or less, the physical symptoms increased in its intensity and are especially demonstrated in the head area - brain fog (which can get really thick), terrible head pressure (especially at top of the head), eye pain and sometimes even dizziness.
If I didn't have to work it would be much easier but this is just so hard...
Usually some grounding exercises are recommended but when I don't want to freeze the process or even slow it down do I have any choice how to handle it?
I was wondering... If kundalini clears out the imbalances in chakras (which causes the painful symtomps) then it might be helpful to work on chakras cleaning actively so that the energy can flow more freely.
Is it bad idea? And can I improve my head symptoms somehow?
Also, another question I have is whether it is good idea to get pregnant during the kundalini awakening? I mean I know it would be much easier without it but who knows how long the process will last and when considering that I'm turning 30 next year... I cannot wait forever.
Thanks a lot for your answer.
Anna
Hello Anna...
Your attitude toward this situation - seeing it as an opportunity for growth - will ultimately prove very beneficial. And yes, I would definitely encourage you to approach your healing process from a psychological or "issue-based" level as well, in order to augment and complement the energetic healing occurring through your meditation and the increased flow of kundalini.
Gaining awareness of the underlying issues that are contributing to your various symptoms - and being proactive in resolving them - will really accelerate your healing process.
I suggest you begin by focussing on issues that tend to block the 5th chakra. That would include (but not be limited to) • Issues around communication and self expression, such as having to refrain from saying what's on your mind or in your heart, not feeling free to communicate openly, keeping an uncomfortable secret, etc. • A tendency to worry or over-analyze • Feeling creatively blocked
And 6th chakra issues, which would include • Holding on to outworn beliefs • Blocking the inflow of new insights and new ways of seeing the world • Resisting the development of psychic/intuitive potential
To help reduce your symptoms, here is a meditative exercise for you. I suggest doing it once or twice a day for about 5 minutes, or whenever the discomfort spikes.
• Sit comfortably, making sure your spine is reasonably straight.
• Bring your attention to the 3 - 4 inch area at the back of your head where your head and neck meet.
• Gently focus on this area.
• Tell yourself you are safe, and that it's ok to relax this area and let go of its instinctual self-protective impulses for awhile. (This is the part of the brain that gives rise to the "fight or flight" impulse.)
• Breathe consciously and naturally, allowing the muscles in this area to relax.
This exercise will allow the energy to flow more freely into your brain and higher centers. Never force the energy... just relax this area and allow it to flow.
Regarding pregnancy during this phase, I really can't say what the ramifications would be. However, from a strictly practical point of view, it would be best to get your energy level back up before venturing into motherhood, which - so I'm told - requires a good deal of energy. :-)
Dear Jim,
Thank you for your advice on bringing the peaceful state with me into my daily life. I have begun using your tips :-)
I have decided to meditate one hour every day for now. Not increasing the sitting time yet. I will give it some more time with this timeframe. And my question in this regard is: Can I deepen my meditation (1 hour meditation every morning) even though I don't increase the sitting time?
Regards,
Thomas
Yes, absolutely. In regards to meditation, depth is not related to length.
I was trying meditation for self development, it always seemed to take the form of a dream quest, anyway the reason I'm posting. In my meditation I was aware of a universe all around me, I was stood on what looked like a narrow path. My awareness wandered, because I realised I was looking at myself, from about 30 yards away, up about the same, but to the back on my (the viewed me) left hand side. When out of the deep universe a giant eye arose, until it was level with the self that was stood on the path. I tried to place my consciousness in the body that was on the path, and I was suddenly in three places, above, in the body and in the eye looking back. i was hit with an urge which was to leap into the eye. then is what this ramble is all about, it felt as though I fell through my life, I relived every moment of my life, I can't explain it any other way, but for the next few days I had total recall of every aspect, every event, even recalling things I'd never really known, the colour of a door 5 doors from where I was visiting?? has anyone else had similar experiences?
Yes, others have had experiences that were somewhat similar. Not all those elements together of course, but others have reported seeing a large eye while meditating, and many have experienced a full review/recall of their lives, particularly at moments when it "seemed" that death was imminent.
When you are meditating and in an altered state, it's pretty much "anything goes" - the possibile experiences are infinite. Often they have symbolic personal meaning for the individual, although at times they are simply random images. I suggest you ask yourself what sort of personal significance this experience may have had for you. Examine the symbolism, the feelings, what stood out most for you about your life, etc.
I feel my body numbness during meditation during sitting or sleeping position,and i use breathing technique? why is it happening and is there any effects.
The numbness you are feeling is simply the result of being in a relaxed state of consciousness. It is one of many possible ways to experience this level of relaxation. Unless you are feeling numb outside of meditation there is no cause for concern.
:)
Hello again, I haven't visited for a few years :) I hope Mr. Malloy this finds you happy and well ~ always ~
Having just suggested your CD River of Tranquility to someone on a facebook page, I wanted to drop by and thank you again for this CD.
It got me past the inital anxiety phase of (returning to) Meditation, and I believe it will her too if she chooses.
I also am deeply comforted by it when I need that. Your River of Tranquilty is my 'saftey blankee' :)
Erin / Katanathene
Hi Erin...
Good to hear from you, and I'm very happy to hear that River of Tranquility has been so helpful for you. I really do appreciate your good feedback... thanks.
Wishing you continued light on your journey, Jim
hi sir, i have been meditating regularly since 7 months and also stopped eating non vegetarian food,at night time i am feeling vibrations within, i could also sense my legs floating in air,for the first time i am curious and i had my first out of body experience, i walked within my house, it lasted only few minutes, but then in my room i could sense some human form unknown, even though i was not conscious enough to be fear then, after i entered into my body, i was very afraid,now at night i was unable to sleep because of all this, while sleeping i am also feeling pressure in head, can u please clarify me what are all these about?
Hello Bindu...
There is nothing to fear. When you are having an out of body experience you are actually in the "astral world" - the next plane up in vibration from our physical world. Like our physical world, the astral world is populated with many individuals. The difference is that they currently do not have physical bodies. These individuals cannot harm you... they are simply souls, like yourself, but living in a different world - a different vibration.
So you can rest assured that you are safe when you are sleeping... and if you leave your body again and encounter any more astral individuals, just say "hi" and move on.
The pressure in your head may be caused by tension from worrying about this experience, or by your inner spiritual energy attempting to clear a little energy blockage from your 6th chakra... or both. Either way, it will quite likely pass soon.
Hi Jim,
I've been experiencing something different while meditating or even just relaxing lately and wondered if you might have some insight to share with me. It seems a bit difficult to describe, but it feels like chills without being cold. I noticed it mostly in my arms, but certainly not exclusively there. Thank you. Sheryl
Hi Sheryl...
From your description, it sounds like one of two possibilities: One is that you are feeling your inner spiritual energy - or chi - moving suddenly through the areas where the chill-like feelings are taking place.
The other is that when you meditate, your physiological functions tend to slow down, including your metabolic rate, which can produce feelings of being chilled.
Either way, what you are experiencing sounds safe and natural, and nothing to be concerned about.
Hello,I ran into your website recently and started doing meditation with keeping those 8 points in my mind .It really made my meditation easier and easier .But the problem is I have adhd for about 10 months and i didnt realize it until recently and this is the reason why i started meditation.Though regular practice of meditation has decreased my adhd symptoms i can concentrate better but sometimes i cannot stop worrying about doing my meditation right .I know that you have recommended not to think too much about your meditation practice but due to adhd i just cannot stop getting worried about it.So can you tell me what can i do to resolve it or would meditation ever cure my adhd forever.I have benn meditating for 2 months now.Thanks in advance.
Hello Urwashi...
First of all I can assure you that meditation is not about doing it right or wrong... it is simply about doing it.
However, if your mind insists on churning out worried thoughts about whether or not you are doing it right, it won't help to fight it. The best thing you can do is to cultivate the ability to not take these thoughts seriously. Just allow your mind to create them, give them the space to be there, and keep bringing your attention back to your breath (or whatever your primary object of focus is).
Developing this ability will serve you well in meditation as well as in your day-to-day life.
As to whether meditation can completely and permanently cure your adhd, I can't promise that, although as you are already discovering, it can be very helpful. What I can say is that regular meditation will contribute significantly to your healing process, but it would be best if used as part of a broader healing regimen.
When receiving a message from a healer a beehive shaped object covered in an delicate ancient lace appeared over me; the feeling I experienced was very pleasant.
what could this have symbolized?
I suggest you have look at each of the symbols and it's universal meanings to see what you come up with:
A beehive can symbolize "sweetness," referring to the honey within... or being "stung"... or both.
Lace tends to symbolize refinement and delicateness... things that are tasteful, sensitive and genteel.
The lace's ancientness could represent that which is traditional and time-honored... or straight-laced and outdated.
Now put the pieces of the puzzle together, and see what interpretation(s) intuitively ring true for you.
Hello Jim,
I'm writing to you because I really don't know who else to ask about this. I had a profound healing through Reiki over fours years ago and began meditating more regularly after that. Around the same time, I had three different experiences of hearing voices as I awoke in the morning. Just a word or a short sentence -- one said "good morning". It was unsettling at best and I "put it out there" that I didn't want to hear voices like that again. It stopped until last month when I woke up hearing "Hey! Look, it's 3:33". I sat up a bit in bed and turned around to face the clock and yes, it was 3:33. At the time I thought "hmmm, it is 3:33" and went back to sleep, but felt strange about it the next day. I woke up and looked at the clock a few days ago and it ws 3:33 and when I wrote about it in my journal, I looked back to the time I heard the voice tell me it was 3:33 and it was exactly one month. I don't know what all this means. I feel frightened and embarressed. I really dread the possibility that I'm losing it -- hearing voices and such. I don't want to be bothered by negative or even questionable energies. I guess I should tell you that I've had other phenomena throughout my life. Silly things like smelling cookies baking and then having my mother call to tell me she was making me the same type of cookies that I smelled and helpful things like hearing (inside my head) "slow down there's a dear" and then as soon as I slowed down, a dear shot across the road in front of me, and premonitions through dreams. Once, I was driving down the road singing and I couldn't remember the words and I "heard" "why dont' you turn on the radio?" I immediately turned it on and that same doggone song was playing -- just beginning to play like it was perfect timing. I was amused and a bit bewildered, but not scared and worried like I feel now. I met a catholic priest at an art class a few years ago and we became sorta friendly. I've done Reiki for him and we touch base now and then, but I hesitate asking him,even though he is a pretty cool guy, because I am afraid he might be a bit biased and will scare me even further. I know this is long and I realize you might not want to deal with it, but if you have any ideas and could shed some insight or direct me, I would be so grateful. I don't want to handle this the wrong way. BTW, I have no history of mental illness and have always been considered intelligent (enough) and a fairly good, level headed person. Thank you Jim. Sheryl
Hello Sheryl...
The good news is, you are not losing it and have nothing to worry about here. (No bad news, really.) You live in a limitless Universe, comprised of myriad dimensions, most of them teeming with life. Within that infinite frame-work, you - and everyone - have at least one spiritual guide, assigned to you to help guide you on your journey through this often bewildering dimension we call Earth.
From your description, I would say that these incidents were simply your guide - or one of them - trying to get your attention... just letting you know it's around and here to assist you. If anything like this occurs again, you might want to acknowledge its presence - a friendly "Hi" will do. Or you may choose to establish a closer communication with your guide, which - in my experience - is a very handy thing.
Thank you so much Jim!! I feel so much better now. :) Sheryl
Hi jim,
I have just started to try and meditate regularly and have been using some beads to count mantras and saying the mantra "hare Krishna hare Krishna Krishna Krishna hare hare. Hare Rama hare Rama rama Rama hare hare". It's quite long and much longer than the mantras you advise on here. I don't mind this as I feel like I need something substantial to focus on as I have very little time to myself with two young children making noise in the background. Is this ok? I do find I am yawning a lot with it so perhaps it is affecting my natural breath?
Any advise appreciated.
Peace and love, Fiona
Hi Fiona...
The length of a mantra doesn't really matter. The important thing is that you are comfortable with it, and with the results it produces.
If you are yawning during meditation, it generally means: • You are tired. • Or your meditation is triggering the clearing of some stored up stress, which is being released through yawning. Either of these are ok and natural. Of course, it may also mean that you are a little bit bored... but that's ok too. :-)
Hi Jim,
Thanks for your help. I have just one question: After sporatically meditating with little obvious results through the years, I began meditating twice a day for 20 minutes and am noticing some positive results. In the past few days I have moved up to 1 hour twice a day...and am becoming used to it. At age sixty two I feel I need to up my meditation time as I may have little time left. I have noted that you seem to recommend shorter times. Is there any reason I shouldn't be doing such long sessions?
Yes there is. The reason is that meditation taps some very powerful - albeit positive - energies. These energies are what elevate your consciousness and cleanse your system of stored up toxins... physical and emotional.
The average human nervous system/energy system can only conduct a certain degree of these energies effectively and comfortably. Beyond that, it becomes counter-productive and can lead to a variety of uncomfortable and/or harmful symptoms. The end result is generally that the individual quits meditating.
Although we are all hardwired differently, I have found through experience that for most meditators, 20 minutes once a day - or 10 to 20 minutes twice a day - is a good and workable duration.
I do know that meditation has been doing me so much good but this last month I have been missing my sessions.Why I do not know its like I havent had time but really have most of the day to myself.I did a 15 minute session this morning and feel great because of it.I suffer from depression and this has helped me so much.How can I keep myself up with a routine?DODO.
First, it is important to understand that we all have a little bit of resistance to anything that accelerates our growth and positive changes in our lives. This inner resistance is generally what is responsible for individuals avoiding their meditation, even though they know how beneficial it is. The surest way to overcome this inner resistance is:
1. Pick a specific time of day when you are most likely to have about 15 minutes to yourself. It can be first thing in the morning, last thing before bed, mid-day, etc... whatever works for you.
2. Make this your meditation time, and commit to meditating at that time each day no matter what.
3. Keep your commitment. It may take a bit of self discipline at first. But once you've developed a habit of meditating daily, it becomes much easier.
hi ive just started getting interested in spiritual guidance but have bin a little put off by someone who initialy helped me get interested in it as it was all about helping fellow man and being happy with one self and not hurting those around us but he just showed me disrespect and lied to me he also show a very nasty side to himself he was brought up with respect and this teaching of higher self and spirituality so u can see my query is im not so sure if this can really help me move forward on
Unfortunately, not everyone who meditates or is on a spiritual path walks their talk. But I have seen how meditation has helped many individuals become better people, including myself. If you are considering taking up meditation and/or other spiritual practices, I suggest you simply try them for a reasonable amount of time to see what they do for you. It would be a shame for you to miss out on all the many benefits based on one person's disrespectful actions.
I was asked by email do I get bored when I meditate.Well I dont My problem is starting or getting ready to mediatate.Once I am there I do feel so good and have had a session or two with an hour and a half that has passed.Dodo.
What you are describing is a classic example of the "resistance" to meditation I mentioned in my response to your last question. What part of you is it that's resisting? Essentially it's your ego-mind, which is trying to avoid losing its position as "chief operating officer" of your life.
Being aware that it is doing this can help you to not buy into its resistance when it's time to meditate. But the bottom line is that it takes a bit of will power and resolve. Here's a pre-meditation mantra for you. "Just do it."
Hi Jim,
You wrote: "not everyone who meditates or is on a spiritual path walks their talk."
What does it mean to "walk the talk" of meditation? Isn't meditation helping those with "bad" intentions, detoxing them, and helping them to become "better" persons?
Yes, meditation does help one to become a better person. However, we are all humans with our own unique shortcomings... plus we all come to our meditation practice from a different starting point. Consequently, it takes some individuals a bit longer for the loving-kindness to kick in. :-)
For those who haven't read this particular Q & A: The answer was in response to an individual's question, regarding a person who was encouraging them to meditate, while at the same time not treating them very kindly.
Hello Jim!
What is your opinion on the 2012 awakening theory that many speak of? What is it all about, and how will it affect us?
I've have been observing and experiencing the lead-up to this time for many years. And have given the phenomenon a lot of thought... more than I can write about here. So, here is a free copy of the e-book I've written on the subject.
From Now Til 2012
Dear Jim,
I have been meditating for almost 1½ year, at least 20 minutes every day, but often between 20-40 minutes each morning and evening.
It has been a journey of personal development for me, with both peace and war inside me.
I have suffered from (probably a mild) hypochondria since early childhood - always being afraid of being deadly ill, or afraid of becoming deadly ill. And I have also (just MAYBE, because the psychiatrist couldn't find any for sure) had a very mild OCD, where I always checked and double checked a lot.
Now, after meditating for 1½ year I can confidently say, that it's all gone! I'm NOT afraid anymore. I do NOT check anymore. Not at all. Really.
But these only feel like some "minor changes". What has really captured my focus is the way my self-image has turned upside-down.
I thought myself to be morally superior - or at least I was claiming to have acknowledged the importance of a great moral code. To such an extend that I kept "teaching" others how to be moral perfect. It had become my mission. I was a preacher.
... After meditating for some time (and of course we are still within the time frame of the 1½ year), my ego began to emerge - at least I became aware of it.
I think my guard came down when meditating - I was ready to look inside. And what I have found sometimes shocks me greatly. Sometimes I find only ego. A very intense ego. Nothing but a will to my own good. Sometimes it feels like looking at such an "evil darkness", that I'm afraid that this is "human nature".
I think this is a great lesson for me. Especially because I have been so sanctimonious (hope it's the right word, taken from google translation). And I do think too that I can't find real compassion for others if I don't recognize this "nature of the flesh" (if it is so). I can't tame the beast, or at least get around the beast, before staring it in its eyes.
For almost a year ago I felt such a hate against some of my colleges (those at the same age at me) - I felt that it was like moving through a massive mountain to accept and feel this hate. But meditation helped me. I could feel the feelings without fleeing. And suddenly it was all over, and I have never felt the hate again. Instead I have changed my view on my colleges. And instead of feeling rejected I saw my colleges as open, some of them even wanting to befriend me, and that it was me who was unapproachable.
In the process I found out it was me, who was insecure. And I sought validation from others. I still do.
Now I'm working with my insecurities. I have gone from feeling righteous indignation in many situations to accepting that I'm not morally superior or especially "strong". I'm just a man with a pretty face, a supporting family, great friends, good social connections, but also insecurities that I have to work with if I want to be more happy and relaxed.
Can you comfort me or guide me with your words? - As you have done so many times before :-)
Regards
You have made tremendous progress in a year and a half. So first I suggest you stop, take a breath or two, and acknowledge how far you've come. It's okay to feel good about this, and now you know that you are quite capable of doing effective inner work.
One of the main reasons you have been able to get to this point, is because of your willingness to look honestly at yourself. That is essential for carrying on effective inner work. As you proceed, I suggest you continue to view yourself with this same unflinching honesty... while at the same time honoring your humanness, i.e. accepting that in this world of duality, we all have our light side and our shadow side.
Then trust that life will send you the exact circumstances you need to work through these insecurities... and pay attention.
Wishing you continued light on your path, Jim
Dear Jim,
Thank you very much for your comforting words! I'm happy that you have this site, and that you want to offer your help so gladly :-)
Regards
You're very welcome.
what is the difference between prayer and meditation?
which one is more effective to receive god's grace.
The difference between prayer and meditation depends on what sort of prayer one is doing. There are forms of prayer, such as contemplative prayer, centering prayer, or deep prayer that are virtually the same as meditation.
Then there are forms of prayer that differ from meditation primarily due to their intent. The type of prayer most people are familiar with - "petition" - differs from meditation in that it is asking for something specific, such as healing, a better situation, etc. Whereas the basic intent of meditation is generally to attain a direct inner experience, whether it be of the divine, inner peace, or simply relaxation.
Both meditation and prayer - especially the types mentioned in the 1st paragraph - can be equally effective for receiving grace.
Hi!
I saw your letters on prayers above. I want to ask about the subject of affirmations.
Are there any "spiritual" affirmations that will work like meditation and not be of the "petition"-sort?
Yes... any phrases that affirm your identity with your peaceful Inner Self. For example: "I am." Or phrases that affirm your identity with the Universal Spirit. For example: "I am the Light," "I am That," or "All this is That."
Hi Jim,
Thanks for your answer to my question about affirmations.
What about affirmations for surrendering? If I recall right, I think that Ramana Maharshi talks about two major topics: Vichara/self-inquiry and surrendering. Ramana Maharshi is often associated with the first approach, but I think he talks equally well for "Surrendering".
A very simple - yet effective - affirmation for surrendering is "Let go." When using this affirmation, it helps to sync it with your breathing, repeating "let" as you inhale, and "go" as you exhale. On the exhalation, you can viscerally feel yourself letting go, as the outbreath is a natural act of releasing.
I was wondering if anyone could tell me what are the green and yellow or purple colors I see on the wall, its not auras i can tell you that.
And why is there a portal over my house which I opened, and last the most important why do we need to meditate in hope for power or freedom or hope for a better place?
I have no answer to your first two questions. In regards to meditation, it's a choice... You are free to choose whether or not to meditate. And although you may discover benefits that you had not counted on, it's entirely up to you to decide why you are meditating, i.e. what you want to attain from the practice of meditation.
Dear Jim,
(I will sent you two post on this blog, because it will not allow the length of the text).
How is self-esteem and meditation related to each other?
Through meditation I have begun a journey inwards through many layers of feelings and beliefs - always getting deeper it seems.
On the workplace I moved through a feeling of hate against others to a feeling of me not being appreciated/recognized. The feeling of hate got very intense ... and then disappeared. It never came back. It still seems to me it got resolved because I found something deeper it had been feeding on - the feeling of not being appreciated/recognized. But also this feeling disappeared. And the clearance of these feelings has given me tremendous comfort in my colleges and my work. It has helped my relations and my enthusiasm about my work.
But now I'm in a romantic relationship. And I feel strong - hurtful - feelings once again. This time it is jealousy and insecurities. And once again meditation seems to peel away layers and getting to the root of the problem ...
- Lately I have found out that I really lack self-esteem. Or maybe the lack I have just feels like a big lack.
When I meditate (and afterwards) the feeling gets stronger. It seems to me that meditation is a way to "lay down the guards" or some kind of surrendering - so the attention can deepen and really sink all the way into the self.
But this process - besides it lets me get conscious of so many things inside myself, for instance feelings, patterns of thinking, even hypocrisy! - also make me feel very vulnerable, very sensitive. And I mean VERY vulnerable and VERY sensitive. Especially now when I'm aware of my desire to improve different areas of my life where I feel I could do better (e.g. romantic relationships).
And because I feel so vulnerable and sensitive I began meditating a shorter time, though still daily. And I also used affirmations and worked on myself by talking with friends and taking some long walks and reflecting.
(... continued ...)
BUT, BUT, I keep getting back to meditation. Because it seems to me that while affirmations, conversations and reflections CONSTRUCT something, meditation on the other hand PEEL AWAY LAYERS. And I think I need to do this to get to the root. The alternative (bad alternative) would be to buy some new fresh wallpaper to put on a rotten wall, to use a metaphor.
Yesterday when meditating it suddenly became clear to me why I feel low self-worth - or I became aware of part of the reason. All my life I have "raised my value" through being handsome, getting good grades in school, showing a faked confident behavior, etc. I have been manipulative and self-deceptive to the point of being deluded, no kidding.
- And THAT'S why I suddenly knew why I'm suffering from low self-esteem. Or at least where a part of my low self-esteem comes from. It is coming from identifying with exactly the aforementioned things. Good grades, good looks and manipulative behavior will NEVER add to my real self-worth! It was so clear, suddenly when meditating yesterday.
... After my meditation this insight faded to a "knowing" - and that's why I can write about it now. But yesterday it was clear without words.
So back to my question about the relation between self-esteem and meditation.
Can I transcend in this area - romantic relationships and the deeper part: Low self-worth - like I won the battle at my workplace? Because now it feels SO INTENSE, I FEEL SO VULNERABLE. And my meditation practice adds to this feeling of vulnerability. My shield against my-self has been laid down, the armor has been taken off, my stoneskin has vanished. Now there's just vulnerable me - and it is getting very intense. I can feel it in my solar plexus sometimes.
I have written to you before, and now I write again. You are a great comfort. And your advices are the best I have ever seen. For instance: I can't find any other place on the web where there's writings about the detoxification process. And you communicate always to the point. I have only good things to say. And if I can inspire others with my personal story, then great :-)
Thank you for being a comfort and a light, dear Jim.
Regards,
Thomas
Hello Thomas... It sounds like you are making very good progress. Having the courage and self honesty to move through all these layers, letting all the "stuff" come up into the light of your awareness, is an extremely valuable ally to have on your journey of awakening.
Along with whatever happiness your current relationship is providing, you can be sure that it is also perfectly designed by your Higher Self to trigger this issue and these intense feelings so that you can move through them as you have with your previous issues. Amazing how much stuff relationships can bring up, isn't it? :-)
Regarding self esteem, there are various levels of cultivating positive self worth...
• There is coming to understand the deeper reasons for low self worth, which is essentially what you are now getting in touch with.
• There is learning to acknowledge and appreciate your good qualities - the authentic good ones.
• There is discovering that the Universe loves and accepts you exactly as you are.
• And there is awakening to the truth that you, as a spiritual being, are an inseparable part of the Universe - perfect as you are, and yet still evolving, still growing to greater heights of fulfillment.
If you continue doing what you've been doing - your daily meditation, plus exploring the depths of your being and being present with what comes up - you will ultimately open to these various levels of self worth.
As in sitting meditation we repeat mantra faintly in mind similarly should we repeat mantra faintly in mind during japa (meditation in action) i.e. how can we attend more relax by repeating mantra faintly or being focused on mantra.
Repeating a mantra faintly tends to allow for deeper relaxation. However, when using a mantra for japa, I suggest you repeat it in whatever way feels most comfortable and natural. That can change as your activity changes. Some situations require more of your attention and some less. So the degree to which your mantra will be in the background or foreground, should naturally change accordingly.
Hello Jim,
I have been practicing mindfulness for almost 9 months now. I have begun to have extremely vivid dreams, which has led me to research a new fascination - lucid dreaming!
I have been told that "astral projection" can be of some concern due to the negative entities in the astral plane. My question is - what is the difference between astral projecting and lucid dreaming? Is there any dangers of this sort that I should be aware of while practicing lucidity?
The reason lucidity is so intriguing to me is to have the ability to communicate directly with my subconscious mind, but I wanted to make sure that this is not the same as astral projecting!
Thank you so much!
There are some crossovers between these two practices, but they are essentially two different exercises. While astral projection is deliberately leaving your physical body to consciously trek around the astral plane, lucid dreaming is learning how to maintain enough consciousness while dreaming to clearly percieve your experiences and ultimately control the events that occur in your dreams.
Where they crossover, is that there are some dreams where you are out of your physical body experiencing things on the astral plane. However, there are also dreams in which you are still in your body, simply perceiving images arising from your subconscious mind.
As for encountering negativity on the astral plane, yes, that can happen, but whatever you encounter is generally a reflection of your own inner terrain. Hence, the best way to avoid that is:
1. Clear away your internal fears and toxic emotions as much as possible.
2. Raise your energy vibration as much as possible.
Meditation, coupled with some form of "inner work," such as quiet self reflection or journaling, are effective ways to do this.
A principle that very much applies to astral experiences is, "There is nothing to fear but fear itself."
When you say sometimes you leave your body, and in other Lucid states you don't - does this depend on the induction technique used? For example WILD (wake induced - from waking state directly into a lucid date) vs DILD (dream induced - realizing you're dreaming while in a dream).
If so, I'll stick to DILD! From my understandings, the negative energies in the astral plane can cause harm. Is this true? I'd like to avoid this and still be able to enjoy the amazing art of lucid dreaming.
Thanks a lot. Your guidance on this website is amazing!
I can't really answer your question about induction techniques. I was simply referring to the dream state in general, sometimes being out of your body and sometimes not. From my understanding, lucid dreaming can occur either way.
If you encounter negative astral energies from a place of fear or combativeness, then yes, your astral body can get a bit dinged up. Hence, if you are reticent about going there, it's best to avoid it.
Hello Mr. Malloy.
I am fairly new at meditation. I had read about it for over a year before I started to actually do it. I have researched a lot of Edgar Cayce material along with organizations and people associated with him, such as John Van Auken and the Edgar Cayce's A.R.E.
After maybe a few times of meditating, I wasn't expecting anything miraculous right away, I was always just trying to focus on my breathing and the silence within. However, one night, as I was meditating, I started to feel this strange feeling all over the outside of my body (not within) but mainly around my head. It felt like a static like electricity. It didn't feel painful or bad or anything. The best way I can describe it is a static like vibration around me, mostly around my head and shoulders. It was so strange to me that I snapped myself out of it (although I wish I hadn't).
Was I just starting to fall asleep? I don't think I was but since I am so new at this I could not tell. Perhaps I was actually getting somewhere!
Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Hello Andrea...
One thing you begin to discover from the practice of meditation, is that part of your overall makeup consists of subtle energy fields that exist in the same space as your physical body, but are not confined to your body. These go by various names, including: your aura, your magnetic energy field, and your energy bodies.
Meditation not only opens your awareness to these subtler parts of yourself, but also tends to trigger increased movement of these energies, which is essentially what you experienced. As long as it occurs naturally - i.e. not by deliberate effort - it's safe and actually a positive thing.
So if you experience anything like this in the future, I suggest you simply allow it to continue, and accept it for what it is. One thing I would not encourage, however, is equating it with "getting somewhere." It's better to maintain an attitude that everything you experience when meditating is part of a larger process of growth, healing and awakening.
Any update about 2012. :)
Yes, I do have an update...
As we approach the 21st of December, the process of shifting to a higher state of consciousness and moving into a higher vibrational frequency continues to escalate.
How is this manifesting? On the plus side, I am hearing stories from many individuals all over the planet about how much their spiritual growth has accelerated in the last year or so. That includes experiencing higher states awareness, accelerated learning, the development of spiritual gifts such a intuition, the desire to be of service, and increased dedication to meditation, yoga and other inner practices.
On the stressful side, everything is becoming more and more amplified. Collectively, planetary events - from weather to world tensions and atrocities - are more intense than ever.
Individually, one of the the most apparent places to observe this amplification is in our everyday reactions to things that we like and dislike. Just notice what a hair trigger most people's emotional reactions are set on at this time.
It's all part of the process of clearing our individual and collective "shadow," elevating our consciousness, and acclimating to living at a higher vibration. Will this culminate in a quantum leap in consciousness at the end of this year? I really can't say. But whether it does or does not, I'm quite certain that this process will continue until we ultimately do reach a level of consciousness at which we can live in a state of greater peace, harmony and compassion on this planet.
can you tell what is the current status of vibrations and seeing the current vibrations can you predict that mother earth will be completely established in a new higher vibration by the end of 2012.
The vibrational frequencies that are driving the consciousness shift continue to escalate. This power is amplifying everything as it pushes us (what use to be a strong "nudge" is now an outright push) to raise our consciousness and vibration.
Will we be established in the new consciousness by the end of this year? I cannot predict that. However, as I look around and observe where we are now and how the majority of humanity is responding, I would say "probably not"... unless we are hit with a vibrational wave so powerful that it is irresistable. I hope I'm wrong.
I am optimistic though, that our awakening process will continue until we have reached a new level of consciousness, however long that takes.
Hello Jim
I have finally done it, I've finally understood bases of what it is I was suppose to understand.
since 2010 my life hit the fan and I've been looking for means of not just restoring it but getting it where I want it to go.
I've been reading up on manifestations and energy work and all sorts of things, still holding a objective and realistic view on the matter.
To shorten a long story I understand what my Spirit has been trying to tell me.
you know so many people study manifestations, magic and the like to gain or have something.
I've discovered the truth and wanted to share it with you and the other readers.
it's only about you, the real you. Being in constant sync with your spirit/super concious mind.
The Best teachers/master of manifestation have informed me that, what we are truly seeking is happiness and happiness can only come from ourselves.
we can be the most wealthy person in the world and still be miserable.
we can have another adore us and still feel unloved
we can be the most powerful magician in history and still feel bitterness.
It's all about being in sync with our spirit and there by being happy.
on top of that, every teacher from joe vitale, to deepak chopra tells us. Anything you desire will come to you if you just ''feel good with what is'' and ''be happy now''
I know that only few people may be ready for this message but I hope it helps those who are and I am so lucky to have learned this at such a young age.
I hope this helps others see the light as it has myself
Good revelation! Thanks for sharing your experience.
Hi I have a long history of having Panic Attacks(social settings)and have read that meditating can be helpful. I just started meditating once a day and love how safe I feel. Would appreciate any advice. Tom
Hi Tom...
It sounds like you're off to a good start and are getting some good results quickly. Therefore, I'd suggest you continue what you are doing - meditating once daily with whatever method you've been using.
Along with that, I suggest that you:
• Keep the length of your meditations between 10 and 20 minutes.
• Stay with it. You may go through periods - days or weeks - where the meditation is clearly helping, and other periods where the results are not so apparent. This may or may not occur, but if it does, stay on track and don't allow yourself to become discouraged. Cycles are a natural part of the growth process.
hi jim
i wanted to ask about a particular observation i had this week.
so I was practicing mindfullness during work and i had this feeling of peace and bliss.
once i got my momentum it was super eas maintain this state but the thing I noticed was, after a while , even though it was easy to maintian I started to feel a senseof slight pain.
I can't really understand or explain it but it was like I was in a state of bliss yet that state was starting to cause light pain and discomfort and I'm not sure why
any though on this?
Nice to hear about your experience. Sudden elevated states like this are generally brought about by a slight increase in the spiritual energy - or chi - flowing through you. This same energy, however, is also a cleansing and healing force, and the pain is most likely an effect of the increased chi working to remove a slight energy obstruction from somewhere in your body.
The pain will pass. Meanwhile, I suggest you simply be mindful of the sensation, giving it the space to be there... until it's not.
I did a guided meditation a few years back and now I cant find it anywhere. I was a meditation seeking answers in which you travel across a desert until you come to a tent and inside the tent is a table with a box on it. in your minds eye you write down the question and place it in the box. have you heard of this and know where I can find it again?
Sorry, I'm not familiar with it... but it sounds like you remember enough of it to wing-it on your own.
hi i wonder if tantra massage is real meditation or just an other way of indulging yourself ? thank you
If it's called "tantra massage," then technically it would be massage rather than meditation. However, if it is approached with a meditative attitude, then it can be considered somewhat of a meditation exercise as well. Hence, the level of approach would depend mainly on the practitioner and his or her intent.
The original essence of Tantra was to transform everything one does into a form of spiritual practice, although we in the modern era have (understandably) tended to focus primarily on the sexual aspects.
Hi,
Should breath meditation (focusing on your breath) be thought of as only a preliminary practice, as I have often read it is (on the net when searching on google)?
Breath awareness meditation can serve as a foundation practice, or it can be used throughout the course of ones journey. It partly depends on what you are trying to achieve from the practice of meditation.
For relaxation and stress reduction, it can be an effective tool for life.
For those using it for spiritual awakening, some do eventually move on to other practices... while those who stay with this meditation tend to discover that their awareness gradually expands beyond breath to encompass higher and deeper aspects of their being.
Hmm it looks like your website ate my first comment
(it was extremely long) so I guess I'll just sum it up what I wrote and say, I'm thoroughly enjoying your blog.
I too am an aspiring blog blogger but I'm still new to the whole thing. Do you have any helpful hints for rookie blog writers? I'd really appreciate it.
Just provide good, clear, useful content and be straight with your visitors... and don't try to slip promotional stuff in where it doesn't belong.
Hi Jim.
This is wonderful website and thank you for it.
I am quite new to meditation practice and I have some questions. I am doing 10-15 minutes sitting meditation every day. Also I am trying to do daily things with awareness. Like when I am walking I now that I am walking. When I am eating and drinking I do these things also mindfully. Trying to be in the now and here as much as possible.
I know that sitting meditation sessions should not be longer than 10-20 min, because during meditation there is increased lifeforce energy flowing into body.
So I would like to know is it possible to practice too musch awareness in daily life (doing as many things mindfully as possible)? What is the difference between sitting meditation and doing things with awareness in daily life. Is their both purpose is to be totally aware about the present moument? Are there different energies involved douring these practices?
And one more question. I have read that OSHO have suggested to begin with active meditations, to get rid of any negativity inside the body. Do you think that doing sitting meditation will be ok and in the end these negative toxins in body will be released?
Best wishes
Karl
Hello Karl...
I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying the Online Meditation Center.
Yes, during sitting meditation there is an increased influx of life force. This is due to various factors including posture, turning the attention inward, breath-awareness, etc. However, this is not the case when you are being mindful during your moment-to-moment activities, so you cannot really over-do it.
It's not that there are different energies at play, but that you are simply not drawing in a significantly increased amount by being more present in your daily life .
Osho's basic premise was that westerners are very restless, and find it too difficult to go from their normal busyness straight to sitting quietly in meditation. Hence, he developed some specific exercises to help people blow off a bit of steam before sitting still to meditate. Is this premise true for all westerners? No. But no doubt some would find it useful.
Is there any bad effect of meditation which might lead to loss of some memories - good or bad?
I am not sure if it is because of meditation or some other neural.
This is my first question, my second question is - usually after sex, I am able to lay down for some minutes, completely blank and a small sensation between my eyes or above it in fore-head or sometimes even above that near to top of head/skull. Is it OK to go in meditation right after sex... ?
No, I've never heard of meditation causing memory loss. However, meditation does help neutralize the negative electrical/emotional charges that accompany memories of unresolved trauma and other negative experiences. This is very valuable for restoring and maintaining health and well being.
Yes, it's ok to go into meditation after sex... as long as your partner doesn't mind the lack of attention. Definitely healthier than having a smoke. :-]
Hi Jim,
I have been meditating for more than two years now. I'm happy about 20 minutes twice a day. Sometimes I feel for more, but somehow I return to 20 minutes twice a day.
Is 20 minutes twice a day good for a lifetime?
Many websites say that this timeframe is an absolute minimum and that one should be pressing on increasing sitting time. Am I missing out on some deeper spiritual transformation? Or am I hardwired poorly since I like 20 minutes two times a day?
Neither. Your intuitive sense of how much meditation is right for you is more reliable than what anyone else can tell you. In my experience, I've found that 20 minutes twice a day is plenty for the vast majority of people. I meditate 20 minutes twice a day, and after 46 years of meditating, I find that time-frame to be quite sufficient for my spiritual growth and my day-to-day well-being.
If you commented anonymously, I don't think you would have been given that option. If you signed up and became a subscriber, I think you can simply unsubscribe and you won't receive any more notifications.
hi there.my name is saied.
my question is when i inmy meditation state for the chackras at the rescent time i suffer from some movements in my body for ex
when my meditation is on the 3chackra my belly moves as asound speaker sometimes so strongly.also when is the heart chackra my body forms like a cobra snake.throught chackra my body moves sometimes as a spiyreal move or like a snake.by the 6chackra so often my body rocking back and forth or my head is drowing a circuls.when i reach the crowen chackra one time i had my head forced down wards so strong.and in the second meditation it is always up wards so strong that i feel my throught will be cut from it self so please help me is good or bad
Hello Saied...
These movements you are experiencing are being caused by an increased flow of your inner energy - your "chi" - to the degree that your body has to move to facilitate this increase. It is best if this energy flow is not increased so much that your body has to make these movements to accommodate it.
Here's what I suggest:
• You did not say how long your meditations are, but if they are longer than 20 minutes, cut back to 20 minutes maximum.
• If you are making more than about 50% effort to concentrate, decrease the effort you are making to a maximum of about 50% - i.e. make only a "medium effort" to focus.
When working with chakras, everything should be done gently and gradually.
Hi Jim
I am practicing mindfulness of breath exercise. Recently, I have read several books on this subject, and their diverse instructions raised some questions regarding the actual practice:
1,For instance, some of the books suggested that, in the beginning of the practice, one should focus on ‘estimating’ the length of each out/in breath without paying attention to other qualities of the breath (such as its coarseness/lightness or the tactile sensations caused by the breath). According to these books, one should start with observing the duration of each breath, and only later on (when the mind is sufficiently focused), one should proceed to observe the ‘whole breath’(its beginning/middle/end, the pause between the in and out-breath, and the other qualities). Is it correct to do the exercise this way? (to start with only focusing on the length of the breath)
2, One book suggested that, while doing the practice, one should not pay too much attention to the particular/distinct sensations of the breath, such as its temperature its coarseness/lightness,or the physical sensations caused by the breath and focus rather on the ‘continuous perception’ of the breath. (( This is rather strange, because I thought that the purpose of the exercise is to mildly focus on such qualities of the breathing.))
3, In one book, I have read that, earlier on, one can focus on the phases of the breath (its beginning,middle,end or the pause between). However, later, this should be dropped, and the breathing should be regarded as a continuous process with no distinct boundaries between the in and out-breath. Based on this, I have the following question:
Should I focus more, in the beginning, on such distinct phases such as the beginning or end of the breath, and later drop this and begin regarding the breath as having no distinct boundaries (between in and out breath), and begin paying equal attention to ‘all unique moments’ of the breathing? Or, alternatively, can I skip the part, when I focus more on the more distinguishable phases (beg/middle/end), and pay equal attention to all unique moments of the breathing from the begining?
(Interestingly, even when I regard the breath as continuous, I can still perceive it as having phases with somewhat distinct boundaries. For instance, the pause following the out-breath is always noticeable. Is this a problem?)
Do you happen to have some insights concerning the above mentioned questions? Thanks in advance for clearing things up a bit.
If you are simply trying to become more mindful of your breathing, then any of these teachings are okay to practice. However, "Mindfulness Meditation" is ultimately about developing an awareness that goes far beyond just the breath.
Its larger aim is to become more conscious of everything that occurs in our field of awareness, and to cultivate a calm, spacious, non-judging awareness that ultimately becomes an integral part into our everyday experience.
Somehow, various teachings have narrowed in on all the little mechanics of observing the breath, and I suppose this can have its benefits. But when I teach Mindfulness Meditation as a practice for becoming more mindful - in the larger sense - I suggest simply focussing on the whole breath coming in and going out, without being concerned about the details. This serves as a starting point, giving the attention something on which to rest. From there, the attention expands, gradually becoming more aware of everything arising in ones field of awareness.
Hi Jim
Thank you for the quick reply. I would like to add few details to my prev post. I am practicing a specific 'breath awareness' exercise, which involves focusing solely on the breath. As far as I know, there are 2 different kinds of 'breaths awareness' exercise in Buddhist tradition:
1, There is the vipassana (insight) method, where the focus is not strictly fixed on the breath. It is more like trying to be aware of the totality of experience, while using the breath as an 'anchor'. For instance, if a distraction (a thought, a feeling, ...) arises, the meditator tries to be aware of the nature of this distraction (while it is present in the mind), while remaining aware of the breath as well. In this way, he/she can develop mindfulness of the whole field experiences.
2, In contrast to the 'vipassana' method, when one practices the 'samadhi' method, the mind is more like being fixed solely on the breath, with a kind of one-pointedness'. Here, the focus is solely the sensations of the breath, and not the totality of ones experiences. The 'samadhi' method also handles distractions a bit differently than the 'vipassana' method.
Currently, I am practicing to master the samadhi method, where I observe 'one-pointedly' the sensations of the breath at the tip of the nose (I do not follow the whole course of the breath in my body). The questions in my prev post referred to this method of 'observing the breath'. I would like to put together a valid 'samadhi' practice. However, due to the questions concerning the practice (these are mentioned in my prev post), I am not sure how to do the (samadhi) exercise properly. Thanks once more for answering.
Thanks for the clarification. As you can see, my teaching leans more toward vipassana, so I suggest you find someone to address your questions with more expertise in the samadhi method.
I do have one bit of advice for you though: It's best to not attach the notion of "properly" and "improperly" too strongly to meditation practice.
Hi Jim
sometimes I avoid meditation even tho I know it makes me feel better and I'm not sure why. Thanks
There are various possibilities regarding why you might be avoiding meditation. Here is a list of the most common "meditation derailers." I suggest you go through the list and see which one - or ones - seem to ring true for you.
1. Unconscious resistance to growth and change
I've discovered this to be the biggest stumbling block students generally have, in regards to staying with a meditation practice. You will, at times, find yourself resisting meditation. The resistance to meditation may be conscious, but the underlying reason - resistance to change - is likely to remain unconscious. This may lead you to begin devising a variety of creative ways to avoid meditating... distractions that seem perfectly reasonable at the time.
This dynamic is mostly due to an inner force we all have within us that resists growth and change. We also have a force within us which gently urges us to grow and make positive changes in our lives. I suggest you simply be aware of the resistant force, and rather than giving in to it, follow the positive evolutionary force within you.
2. Not committing to making time to meditate
3. Not experiencing dramatic results immediately
4. Thinking that you aren't doing it right
5. Detoxification - Clearing stored up physical-emotional toxins
Meditation clears away the residue of unresolved stressful and traumatic experiences which have become stored in the body and mind as physical-emotional toxins. If you find that you are releasing these toxins - "detoxing" - in meditation, or outside of meditation, be aware that a very valuable healing process is occurring and will pass shortly, leaving you free of these limiting negative energies.
That makes a lot of sense. Thank you Jim
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