Meditation in Daily Life
The natural state of the universe is to tend towards a level of chaos which is greater than we humans like to live in. After all, who has ever heard of a bedroom becoming neat all by itself? It is little wonder then, that life can feel tiring after fighting this natural law each day of our lives?
So why meditate?
It certainly isn't going to make our bedrooms any neater! It will however, give us a deeper insight into the world and empower us with knowledge that can free us from things that we allow to hurt or disturb us. Similar to how our messy bedrooms seem to drive our parents nuts!
A good meditation practice is like slowing time down for a few moments so that we can see what is important, what can be changed, and what is worth putting effort into. Essentially it is about centring ourselves and becoming one with the universe. It requires us to pull-back from the hustle and bustle around us and become the observer from a calm position.
So how do we achieve this sense of being?
Sitting in seiza (kneeling), we allow ourselves to relax. Remember that perfect posture and alignment is necessary to really let go. After a few breaths we start to notice that our physical form starts to take on a state that is most appealing to our minds; one of perfect balance, symmetry and calmness. Holding the same pose for some time will start to make us feel restless or tired. From here can explore the possibility of maintaining this perfect posture with no effort.
The mind is a part of our body, it will also naturally relax and the stray thoughts we hold on to will begin to fall from our consciousness like autumn leaves. When the mental noise quietens down, true wisdom emerges and the first thing we discover is that all the knowledge, strength, love and power we will ever need is already present in us. To hear it, we simply need to subdue the noisy clatter that normally is rattling in our skulls.
Techniques such as focusing on the breath or counting mentally are all helpful in bringing a sense of order to our minds, but should not be relied upon. Also, cycling between physical relaxation and mental focus allows our minds and bodies to be occupied while still staying in the moment. This can assist those who are new to meditation to maintain their practice for extended periods.
With dedicated training, we are gifted with sudden euphoric insights which are simply priceless. In the words of my teacher Saito Sensei ... "Train to wait... Wait to train"
Gregor Erdmann is a certified personal trainer and instructor at the Blue Leaf Dojo in Sydney, Australia. Classes are held at Tuesday and Thursday nights at the Burwood PCYC and caters for all levels. Gregor Sensei is known for his attention to detail and his one on one teaching approach with all his students.
