Mon 22 Jun 2009
It’s not in any way compulsory to take on an uncomfortable or challenging pose when you’re meditating. There are a few guidelines, though, that help you make the most of your meditation session. For example, almost all meditative practices teach that the spine must remain straight and slumping is not encouraged. The reason for this is that when you sit erect it promotes the circulation of your spiritual energy. This is believed to be your life energy or force.
Even though a straight back is almost universal in the different approaches to meditation, some forms of the practice such as spiritual meditation utilize a variety of postures. Here’s a look at a few of the different postures.
1. Seated position. The person sits erect while keeping the back straight. The head and spine are in alignment and not tilted. Thighs are parallel with the ground. Hands are placed comfortably on the knees or chair arms.
2. Cross legged posture. This is a very common posture; the lotus position is included in this category.
3. Kneeling position. The person is positioned with both knees resting on the floor. The buttocks rest on the heels and toes, which are placed side by side. Hands rest on the thighs.
4. Lying down position. In yoga this is referred to as savasna; it’s also known as the corpse position. The person lies down on the floor keeping the legs unbent and at ease. This posture isn’t that common since it so closely resembles the sleeping position. The individual can occasionally nod off. This is more useful for stress reduction rather than as a meditation method.
In addition to these postures, there are several gestures and movements that can be incorporated into the practice of meditation. Included in these are hand motions which are termed Mudras. There’s a theological significance behind these motions. Coming from the yogic philosophy, they can impact your consciousness. One illustration is the typical Buddhist hand placement. With the thumbs touching, the right hand is positioned on top of the left hand.
You can also encourage a state of meditation through the use of repetitive activities like deep breathing, chanting and humming. There are also those who use walking meditation. Typically, the eyes are closed or partially closed during meditation. Those who practice Soto Zen meditation, however, do so with their eyes open looking at a wall.
Since ancient times, people have practiced meditation techniques for the numerous benefits they offer. Practicing meditation as part of your daily routine might lead to improvements in your outlook and attitude. To achieve the advantages of meditation, stick to the advice and training of the kind of meditation you have chosen to practice. Be aware that persistence and acceptance are required to achieve success. This might help you during difficult times of meditation and will improve focus in your daily life.
