Meditation

Origins and historical development :

The brain has always recognised a need for the body to relax; and to do this while conscious humans historically use meditation. Perhaps the most familiar ancestor who used meditation is Buddha, whose image is often portrayed with him sitting in the lotus position undertaking yogic meditation. Eastern cultures have long advocated the use of meditation for finding inner peace and these practices were first introduced to England in the late 19th Century, spreading to the US as Zen Buddhism.

In the 1940s the yogi Maharishi Mahesh founded Transcendental Meditation, again based on Hindu philosophies but this time with the use of chanting; which went on to become firmly established in the West by the 1960s. Transcendental Meditation is responsible for prompting great interest and research into the therapeutic effects of relaxation which in turn has encouraged the development of non-religious meditative practice.

What to expect during a treatment :

Although meditation is a very personal journey to find peace and relaxation from the normal hustle of everyday life, its practice is often undertaken within a group setting, as well as on one’s own. Indeed, group meditation with chanting often forms an integral part of many Eastern religions, such as Hinduism and Buddhism; but of course, meditation can be practiced without any religious connotation whatsoever. A meditative guide can help willing participants visualise and focus together to reach that alpha (meditative) state, which will then allow each individual to relax and enjoy their personal interpretation of the experience.

Group meditation will often start with a meditative guide starting a general discussion while sitting round in a comfortable setting; and encouraging everyone to focus on their breathing. This may then be followed by some simple visualisation that will stimulate all the senses and bring about relaxation; such as standing at the water’s edge on a beach and hearing the waves, seeing the blue of the sea and the sky; and feeling the warm water wash round the ankles. From here the group will be left to freely explore their feelings.

Meditation by one’s self may initially appear to be one of those mysterious states only certain people attain through years of isolation; however, by allowing a little time on a regular basis to practice this form of mental exercise, many people find meditation an incredibly rewarding and beneficial addition to their life as it becomes easier over time. As a self help way of freeing oneself from day to day stress, just 20 minutes spent alone in a quiet environment, visualising an idyllic setting and focussing on breathing, meditation will be encouraged by the brain as it looks to ease into the natural, comfortable alpha state. However, it is worth first consulting a meditative guide and teacher so as to learn how to avoid fixation on particular emotional issues which may prevent full relaxation.

Conditions suitable for treatment :

Many people find mediation a rewarding experience regardless of their state of health; although its use may often be suggested for helping to alleviate fatigue, high blood pressure, migraine, stress, insomnia and addiction. Meditation is also believed to bring increased levels of energy, creativity and contentment.