What is Mindfulness? The Art of Being Present


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mindfulness vs meditation

What is Mindfulness? The Art of Being Present

Mindfulness has gained significant popularity in recent years. It has become a buzzword in health and wellness circles, as well as in corporate settings. But, what is mindfulness exactly? What is the meaning of mindfulness? Let’s take a closer look!

What is Mindfulness? Mindfulness Definition

Mindfulness is all about focusing your awareness of the present moment, non-judgmentally, it is a mental state defined by an open-minded state of being aware of the current moment. It involves paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and physical senses in a way that is free from distractions and judgment. This means that you observe your experiences without getting caught up in them or trying to change them. 

One of the reasons mindfulness has become so popular is that it is an easy and accessible practice that can be done anywhere, at any time. You don’t need any special equipment or training to practice mindfulness. You only need the willingness to be present and observant of your experiences.

As you practice mindfulness, you may find that your mind wanders or that you get caught up in thoughts or emotions. This is completely normal. It is not about eliminating thoughts or emotions. What is mindfulness in simple terms is observing your thoughts without getting caught up in them.

Mindfulness vs. Meditation

The practice of mindfulness has its origins in Buddhist meditation, but it has been adapted globally in modern times. 

Mindfulness teaches us to accept and pay attention to our thoughts, feelings, and what is happening around us. By practicing mindfulness, we make better choices in responding calmly or empathetically when we are faced with such challenges. With prolonged practices of mindfulness, you can be more patient and find a sense of compassion for yourself, as well as teach your mind to be still.

mindfulness vs meditation

Meditation is slightly different from mindfulness. Meditation is a tool and a practice to train yourself and your mind in building awareness and creating a healthy sense of perspective. 

It requires you to focus intentionally with an array of different forms and techniques, depending on what your intent is. By meditating, you alter a state of consciousness that connects you to your deeper sense of inner self.

Benefits of Mindfulness

There are many benefits of mindfulness, both for your mental and physical health. Studies have shown that mindfulness can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve cognitive and immune system functions. It has also been shown to improve relationships and increase feelings of well-being and happiness.

Another great benefit of mindfulness is that it can help with boosting your memory. In a 2018 study, participants either undertook four weeks of mindfulness training or took a creative writing course. The tests showed that those who had been training in practicing mindfulness showed more remarkable proactive interference decreases. The proactive interference is your older memories interrupting your ability to create or access new memories. Thus, mindfulness shows significant improvements in the participant’s short-term memories.

Research has also indicated that mindfulness can also help to relieve the symptoms of many different health conditions, such as fibromyalgia, psoriasis, and type 2 diabetes.

With regular practice, you may find that mindfulness becomes a natural part of your daily life and you may find yourself more present and alert in your interactions with others. In addition to being more aware of your own thoughts and feelings, and being able to manage stress and anxiety.

Mindfulness is a powerful tool for improving your mental and physical health, and for developing a greater sense of well-being and happiness in your life. With frequent practice, mindfulness can lead you to a richer and more generous experience of life.

How do I practice mindfulness?

We believe that mindfulness is a skill that anyone can learn, no matter how new you may be to the practice. Here are some simple ways that you can practice mindfulness:

1. Take a moment to breathe before you start your day (you’ll be amazed at how much this helps!).

2. Try to take some time out of the day by going for a walk. This will give you time to unwind, clear your head, and keep both your mind and body fit.

3. Slow down and pay attention to things around you. Take the time to experience the environment with your senses – sight, smell, taste, sound, and touch. For example by listening to your favorite song, and hearing how the instruments are being played, or the singer’s tone of voice.

4. Find some kind of joy in your everyday life and live in the moment. Even if it wasn’t a good day, always try to find some good things about it, and remember tomorrow is always a new day.

6. Treat yourself as you would treat a good friend, and respect yourself for who you are and what you are not. Everyone is different and we aren’t made to be perfect.

If you are looking for more structured mindfulness exercises, you could try:

1. Body Scan Meditation: Lie on your back with your legs extended and arms at your sides with your palms facing up. Focusing slowly the attention on each part of your body, in order from head to toe, or toe to head. Be aware of any feelings, emotions, or thoughts that you may encounter with each part of your body.

2. Sitting Meditation: Find somewhere where you can sit comfortably, with your back straight, feet flat on the floor, and hands in your lap. Focus on your breathing and be sure to breathe from your nose. If any thoughts or sensations interrupt you, note them without judgment or attachment, and focus back on your breathing

3. Walking Meditation: Find a good quiet place like a park or forest and begin to slowly walk around. Focus on your experiences while you are walking, being aware of how your body walks and how it keeps you upright and balanced. When you reach the end of the path, turn back and continue walking and maintaining this form of awareness. You can also engage your senses to smell, touch, hear and see nature around you.

Are you curious about how long you should practice mindfulness? It’s a common question, but the answer varies based on your individual preferences and circumstances. However, experts recommend practicing mindfulness for at least 10 to 20 minutes every day for maximum benefits. Don’t worry too much about the duration, though! Consistency and frequency in your practice are more crucial than the length of time you spend on it. Remember, mindfulness is a skill that needs to be honed over time to truly gather its rewards. So, keep practicing and enjoy the journey!

How do I become more mindful?

Whether you are new to mindfulness or meditation, or if you have been practicing for years, there are many resources available to help you deepen your practice and experience its benefits. One of the best ways to develop and deepen your mindfulness journey is through meditation. At Samavira our 6-week meditation trainings are designed to support you in creating your very own unique style of meditation that works for you, so why not give it a try and see for yourself what Samavira can do for you?

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The Maharishi Effect

The Maharishi Effect

April 12, 2023 No Comments

Beyond Meditation: The Maharishi Effect and the Quest for Inner and Outer Peace You may have heard about the many health benefits of meditation at

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What is meditation? Its true meaning, common myths and more


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What is meditation? Its true meaning, common myths and more

What is meditation? Its true meaning, common myths and more

What is Meditation?

Meditation can be defined as an age-old practice that has been used for thousands of years by various cultures and religions around the world. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations in India, China, and other parts of Asia, where it was used as a tool for spiritual and personal development.

Simply put, meditation’s meaning can be defined as a practice in which an individual uses a technique – such as focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity – to train attention and awareness, and achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm and stable state. Few of the popular meditation techniques are Dhammakaya Meditation, Guided meditation, Vipassana Meditation and more.

The ancient significance of meditating varied depending on the culture and context in which it was practiced. In Hinduism, for example, meditation was seen as a path to self-realization and a way to connect with the divine. In Buddhism, meditation was used as a means of achieving enlightenment and escaping the cycle of suffering. In Taoism, meditation was used to cultivate inner peace and harmony with nature.

Benefits of Meditation

Now that we have clarified what meditation is, you can also read about the numerous benefits of meditation for both the mind and body below:

1. Reduced stress and relaxation: Meditation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation by calming the mind and slowing down the body’s physiological responses to stress. This can result in reduced levels of anxiety, fatigue, and an overall increased sense of calm and well-being.

2. Self-awareness and self-reflection: By knowing how to meditate and regular practice, individuals can become more self-aware and introspective, gaining insights into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This self-reflection can lead to personal growth, increased self-esteem, and improved relationships with others.

What is meditation? Its true meaning, common myths and more

 3. Physical benefits: Meditation has been shown to have physical benefits, such as reducing blood pressure, improving sleep quality, and boosting the immune system. It can also help alleviate symptoms of chronic pain and improve overall physical health.

 4. A pause from daily hustle: Meditation provides a much-needed break from the daily hustle and bustle, allowing individuals to step back and take a moment to quiet their minds and connect with the present moment. This can lead to increased focus, creativity, and productivity.

Overall, knowing what meditation is and incorporating it into your daily routine can have a profound impact on both mental and physical health, providing a sense of peace, clarity, and overall well-being. To help you understand meditation’s meaning some more, read about the various meditation methods and processes below.

Various Meditation Methods And Processes

Meditation is practiced in a variety of ways, with different techniques and traditions emphasizing various aspects of the practice. Here are some of the most common methods of meditation:

1. Dhammakaya Meditation: Dhammakaya meditation is a traditional Buddhist practice. It involves visualizing a crystal or a bright light at the center of the body, with the aim of developing concentration, awareness, and inner peace.

2. Guided Meditation: Guided meditation involves a teacher or recording providing verbal guidance. The focus is on guiding the meditator through visualizations or other techniques intended to cultivate relaxation, concentration, and inner peace.

3. Vipassana Meditation: Vipassana is a traditional Buddhist meditation technique that involves observing the breath and bodily sensations, with the aim of developing mindfulness and insight into the nature of reality.

4. Transcendental Meditation: Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a popular form of meditation that involves the use of a mantra, a word or sound repeated silently, with the aim of quieting the mind and achieving a deep state of relaxation.

5. Zen Meditation: Zen meditation, or Zazen, is a form of seated meditation that emphasizes stillness, concentration, and the cultivation of awareness. It often involves focusing on the breath, as well as on the present moment and the body’s sensations.

6. Present-Moment Meditation: Present-moment meditation is a technique that involves focusing the mind on the present moment, without judgment or distraction. It can be practiced while engaged in a variety of activities, such as walking, eating, or simply sitting and observing the present moment.

While the specific techniques and traditions of meditation vary, the common goal is to cultivate a greater sense of inner peace, awareness, and well-being. By practicing and mastering a meditation technique, you will understand the significance and meaning of meditation deeply and reap its wide benefits. 

Common myths related to meditation

Common myths related to meditation

The widespread appeal of meditation has led to the spread of myths and misunderstandings surrounding this practice. These misconceptions may serve as obstacles, deterring individuals from starting a meditation routine. Even those who already practice meditation may feel inadequate if they fail to attain certain unrealistic outcomes often depicted in fanciful stories. Knowing what meditation is and what it is not is essential for practitioners and teachers. Here are some common myths related to meditation:

1. Meditation means escaping thoughts: Meditation is not about stopping or escaping thoughts altogether, but rather learning to observe them without getting caught up in them. The goal is not to eliminate thoughts, but rather to cultivate a state of awareness and detachment from them.

2. The point of meditation is not just to clear or empty your mind: While some meditation techniques may involve focusing on a particular object or clearing the mind, the true aim of meditation is not to empty the mind, but rather to develop a greater sense of awareness and focus.

3. Meditation should be effortless: While meditation can be a relaxing and rejuvenating practice, it is not always easy. It requires discipline, patience, and a willingness to confront and work through difficult thoughts and emotions.

4. I have a lot on my mind, meditation won’t work for me: In fact, meditation can be especially helpful for individuals who struggle with racing thoughts or anxiety. Through regular practice, it is possible to develop greater control over the mind and cultivate a sense of inner calm.

5. Meditation is for the mind, not the body: While meditation is primarily a mental practice, it can have numerous physical benefits, such as reducing blood pressure, improving sleep, and alleviating symptoms of chronic pain. This makes sense given the mind-body connection: it has been shown there is a link between a person’s thoughts, feelings and behavior and their physical symptoms.

6. Isn’t meditating just relaxing?:While meditation can be a relaxing practice, its benefits go far beyond relaxation. Regular practice can lead to increased focus, creativity, productivity, and overall well-being.

7. Meditation takes too long: While some meditation techniques may involve longer periods of practice, it is possible to incorporate short, focused meditation sessions into even the busiest of schedules. Just a few minutes of meditation each day can make a significant difference in overall well-being.

Meditation vs. mindfulness

Meditation and mindfulness are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Here is a comparison of the two practices:

Meditation

Meditation is a mental practice that involves training the mind to focus and achieve a state of calm and relaxation. There are many different forms of meditation, including focused attention, open monitoring, and transcendental meditation. Some forms of meditation involve using a specific object or focus point, while others aim to cultivate a state of awareness and detachment from thoughts and emotions.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a practice that involves being fully present in the moment and observing thoughts and sensations without judgment. It is often practiced through focused attention on the breath or on bodily sensations, with the goal of developing a greater sense of awareness and acceptance.

While meditation and mindfulness share some similarities, such as the goal of cultivating a greater sense of awareness and inner peace, they differ in their techniques and focus.

Meditation encompasses a wide range of practices, while mindfulness is a specific type of meditation. Meditation may involve focusing on a particular object or visualization, while mindfulness involves observing thoughts and sensations in the present moment.

meditation vs mindfulness

In popular culture, meditation and mindfulness are often used as the definition of meditation, leading to confusion about their differences. However, it’s important to understand that while they share some similarities, they are distinct practices with different techniques and approaches.

Conclusion

Knowing what meditation is is the first step to understanding how beneficial and impactful the practice can be. By dedicating a few moments every day, you can have an impact on your stress reduction and overall health. 

Training the mind to help achieve a state of calm and relaxation, with the goal of cultivating a greater sense of awareness and inner peace has become necessary in the present where we are always ‘plugged in’.

The different forms of meditation, each with its own unique techniques and goals can be a challenging but rewarding practice that requires patience, discipline, and a willingness to confront difficult thoughts and emotions.

Through regular practice, it is possible to cultivate greater awareness, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall well-being. Learn how to meditate with Samavira meditation sessions.

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The Maharishi Effect

The Maharishi Effect

April 12, 2023 No Comments

Beyond Meditation: The Maharishi Effect and the Quest for Inner and Outer Peace You may have heard about the many health benefits of meditation at

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The Maharishi Effect


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The Maharishi Effect

Beyond Meditation: The Maharishi Effect and the Quest for Inner and Outer Peace

You may have heard about the many health benefits of meditation at an individual level, but did you know that group meditations may also be able to fill the world with more positive energy and create global peace? This scenario has been studied as the Maharishi Effect. Keep reading to learn more about this phenomenon!

The Maharishi Effect is a proposed phenomenon in which a large group of people practicing Transcendental Meditation (TM) or other advanced meditation techniques can create a measurable and beneficial effect on the surrounding environment. 

Moreover, the significance of the Maharishi Effect lies in its potential to promote peace and harmony on a global scale. When a group of individuals practices Transcendental Meditation or other advanced meditation techniques together, it creates a powerful field of coherence that can positively affect the surrounding environment, including reducing crime rates, improving social indicators, and promoting peace.

After knowing what the Maharishi effect is, let’s dive deeper into the concept.

History of the concept

The concept of the Maharishi effect was first introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of the Transcendental Meditation movement, in the early 1970s. Maharishi believed that by practicing TM in a group, individuals could tap into a “unified field of consciousness” that could influence the collective consciousness of the world, leading to a decrease in negative social and environmental factors.

In 1974, Maharishi organized a group of 1,000 TM practitioners to meditate together in a small town in Iowa, known as the “TM-Sidhi program”. During the course of the program, the crime rate in the surrounding area decreased significantly, leading to widespread media attention and popularizing the concept of the Maharishi effect.

The Maharishi Effect

Maharishi Effect Research

Research on the Maharishi Effect suggests that individual consciousness is not isolated, but can influence and be influenced by the collective consciousness of society, which can have profound implications for our understanding of the nature of consciousness and the power of human potential

There have been several scientific studies conducted on the Maharishi Effect, including both experimental and observational research. Here is a brief overview of some of the key studies:

1. The Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program in the Prevention and Control of Crime in Washington, D.C.

This Maharishi Effect study, conducted in the early 1990s, involved a group of meditators practicing the TM-Sidhi program in Washington, D.C. Researchers found that during the time that the group was meditating, violent crime rates in the city decreased significantly, compared to the same time period in previous years.

2. A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effects of Transcendental Meditation on Blood Pressure

This study, published in 2006, involved a randomized controlled trial of Transcendental Meditation (TM) of a group of African American adults with high blood pressure. The study found that those who practiced TM had significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to a control group. 

Overall, these studies suggest that group meditation, particularly the TM-Sidhi program, can have a positive effect on reducing crime rates, promoting peace, and improving health outcomes.

Practical implications of the Maharishi Effect

The practical applications of the Maharishi Effect are vast, and its potential as a tool for promoting peace and well-being in society is significant. Below are some of the areas where it has been applied:

1. Education

The Maharishi Effect has also been applied in the field of education. Studies have shown that schools that incorporate the Transcendental Meditation technique into their curriculum have lower absenteeism rates, increased academic performance, and reduced behavioral problems among students.

2. Health and Wellness

The Maharishi Effect has also been applied in the field of health and wellness. Studies have shown that meditation can reduce anxiety and depression as well as stress reduction and improve overall well-being.

The Maharishi Effect

3. Conflict Resolution

The Maharishi Effect has also been used as a tool for conflict resolution. A study conducted in the Middle East in the early 1990s found that a group of meditators practicing together was associated with a significant reduction in the number of terrorist attacks in the region.

Organizations and Initiatives that have utilized the Maharishi Effect

Here are some organizations and initiatives that have utilized the Maharishi Effect:

1. The Global Country of World Peace (GCWP)

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the creator of TM, founded this international organization. The GCWP promotes the practice of TM and the Maharishi Effect as a means of creating world peace. They organize Global Peace Assemblies, where large groups of people practice TM and the TM-Sidhi program together to create a positive influence on the world’s collective consciousness.

2. The World Peace Assembly

This is a series of large-scale TM-Sidhi programs organized by the GCWP. The first World Peace Assembly was held in Iowa in 1979 and was attended by over 1,000 people. Since then, similar assemblies have been held around the world with the aim of reducing global violence and conflict.

3. The Institute of Science, Technology, and Public Policy (ISTPP)

This research institute studies the effects of the Maharishi Effect on society. They have conducted numerous studies that suggest that large groups of people practicing TM and the TM-Sidhi program can reduce crime rates and improve social indicators such as unemployment and poverty.

Overall, these organizations and initiatives have utilized the Maharishi Effect to promote global peace and improve social indicators.

Conclusion

The Maharishi Effect

The Maharishi Effect has significant potential as a tool for promoting peace and well-being in society. Its practical applications in areas such as crime reduction, education, stress reduction, and conflict resolution are just a few examples of its potential benefits. With continued research and implementation, the Maharishi Effect may become a powerful tool for creating a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Your Next Step

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The Maharishi Effect

The Maharishi Effect

April 12, 2023 No Comments

Beyond Meditation: The Maharishi Effect and the Quest for Inner and Outer Peace You may have heard about the many health benefits of meditation at

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