Meditation and Buddhism classes
Although the dictionary gives various definitions of 'meditation', in the Buddhist context it refers to the practice of concentrating the mind for a period of time on some aspect of our experience - the 'meditation object'. These meditation objects can be of various kinds. For example, in the 'Mindfulness of Breathing' meditation, one concentrates on the sensations of the breath as it enters and leaves the body; in the 'Metta Bhavana' (cultivation of friendliness) meditation, one concentrates on one's experience of positive emotion.
Meditation is usually done in a seated posture (not necessarily the 'Lotus Position'!), but there are other styles such as the 'Walking Meditation'.
Most people think of meditation as a way of relaxing or achieving peace of mind; it is also much more than that. Through meditation, we can increase our awareness of ourselves and the world around us. Meditation is the main means of transforming ourselves and that is why it has been used as a spiritual practice for thousands of years.
The different meditation practices have different purposes and benefits - for example, the purpose of the Mindfulness of Breathing is to develop increased concentration, awareness and calmness of mind, and the purpose of the Metta Bhavana is to develop positive emotions - warmth, kindness and friendliness towards yourself and others. Other meditation practices promote the development of spiritual insight and wisdom.
Finally, most Buddhists would assert that their practice, including meditation, makes them happier and more contented with life. This subjective experience is supported by recent research, summarised in this report from the BBC's news website.
Sit for half an hour with the intention of concentrating on your breathing and the likelihood is that at the end of that half hour you will look back and realise that you did anything but that! In fact, to meditate productively, most of us need all the help we can get. By coming to a class, you can benefit from:
