Hi Readers,
Welcome to the final installment in my 3-part meditation series!! In part 1 I discussed my view on what meditation is, provided examples on how I use it within my practice, and within part 2 I discus within both the videos and posts regarding types, different ways to get started with meditation, and provide tips. Additionally, I have created a playlist for all the meditation videos in the series.
In this post, and the proceeding video I would like to provide some final thoughts concerning meditation along with some resources on types that I have discussed previously.
Meditation can be practiced from anywhere. I chose to discuss this because a lot of people think meditation needs to constantly be practiced in a quiet space or in front of some sort of altar. I do not see anything wrong with that If that works for you. However, I find that meditation is one of those things you can do in any place, at the park, on a bus, etc. I have meditated on a train while traveling I used music to help me focus and I eventually fell asleep that is how relaxed I was which was intention for meditating. This said, if you are working on a spell, doing spirit communication, going to have a ritual, or you are trying to make a type of connection then I would say having a quire place to meditate along with an altar would be appropriate.
You do not have to use candles or incense all the time. I wanted to bring this up because some people are in situations whereby, they cannot burn or use candles both candles and incense. If this is you, I would recommend using an essential oil diffuser, or a wax warmer. If you do not have access to that, then use something else a sound, a rock from your area, a plant etc. to make a connection or If you are using it for focus. Further, if you feel like you absolutely need it, then use can go outside If the weather permits to light it safely with a plate or dish underneath. If all else fails, simply meditating outdoors or using objects that are significant to you can help. For example, I lived in a place where I could not burn incense and I was celebrating the Full Moon which include a meditation as part of the ritual, so I would keep it around and unlit. Instead, I used other objects like a fan or a spray to facilitate the connection I was looking for. These are just some ideas if you have any more please leave them in the comments!
Making time for meditation is not difficult. I realize with our current situation many of us maybe working from home, or even still going to work. If you are in either of these situations finding time to meditate seems difficult. Even If you are going to school making time for meditation can be low on your list. Especially, you have a family or other important obligation. With all of this in mind, I would like to end with a few ways you can incorporate time for meditation. Pick a time you know for a fact you will not be disturbed. If that is when you shower, then used music that relaxes you to help with the meditation. You can also use an essential oil, a soap with a scent that helps with relaxation, or something else during that time. Also, if you are up before everyone else taking 5 minutes before leaving your bed as part of your routine to meditate can help. For example, I like to do a short breathing meditation as I set my intention for the day. Also, I like to meditate as part of my daily practice at my altar. Use what works for you and this includes timing. If you only have 10 minutes at the end of the day, then use that for meditation. Even If you are just sitting to do breathing exercises or a short, guided meditation. Finally, do not feel guilty If you cannot make time to meditate. I realize that may sound odd, but If you cannot just plan out the time. Make it part of your routine and it will make it easier. You can even set a reminder If need be or If you want to involve your family in what you are doing you can do this before dinner, going to sleep, or some other time. Meditation is a good way to help with mental help. These are only a few ideas I hope they health you in some way.
These are just a few final thoughts I have about meditation. I wanted to make sure I mentioned them as part of the series to help others. I hope this series has helped you learn more about meditation, helped you considered new ways of meditating, and how to incorporate meditation into your life and practice.
I discuss more the video below:
Resources:
What is meditation:
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-meditation-2795927
This article discusses what meditation is along with providing some reasons why one would begin meditation.
What is meditation and a description of mindfulness:
https://www.headspace.com/meditation-101/what-is-meditation
This article provides a differing perspective on meditation and gives an overview on mindfulness meditation which I discussed early on the series.
Types of meditation:
https://www.headspace.com/meditation/techniques
This source provides a great list of the various types of meditation. Some of which I discussed early on, but this list is not exhausted, but does include guided meditations, meditations without guides, and a few I did not mention like mantras, chakra meditations, etc.
Other types of meditation:
https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/types-of-meditation#visualization-meditation
This article provides more types including focus meditation, visualization, Matras, and more in-depth on meditation.
Meditation and the brain:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-47470-4
This article gives insight into how mindfulness meditation changes the structure of our brains in relation to depression and anxiety in addition to other aspects.
Another mindfulness research study.
Another mindfulness research study.
This article discusses more on mindfulness research and the brain. The study is a few years old, but I am sure more will exist later.
https://www.everydayhealth.com/meditation/ways-changes-brain/
This article discusses 4 other ways meditation changes the brain including structure, aging, and more.
Meditation and brain waves:
https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/types-brain-waves-effects-meditation/
This gives insight into the types of brain waves I mentioned in the beginning of the series, along with how meditation effects those states.
This final source provides more information concerning brain waves and what happens while meditating.
This is not an exhaustive list of resources I highly recommend performing your own research for your own information and records!
Interested in more content? Do not want to miss anything? I urge you to subscribe to my blog via email below, along with my YouTube channel!
Many Blessings!