We have all heard about the power of meditation but the weekend that just went by, led me to realize it at a very profound level. I have always been an admirer of those who practice meditation regularly. I have always wanted to meditate but somehow haven’t been successful simply because I am more of an ‘aerobics exercise’ person and so I haven’t been able to pursue Yoga and meditation as much as my other forms of exercise! Last Friday Dr Kiran Bedi visited Symbiosis. She is an ardent practitioner of meditation. She not only practices herself but has carried out innovative and reformative initiatives using the technique of Vipashana and meditation even in Tihar Jail. She draws her resilience from the calmness of her mind which emanates from meditation.
During her visit, we practiced meditation together with students. We practised meditation just for 20 to 30 minutes, but believe me or not it is for the first time I realised how meditation imbues calmness of the mind.
I have often wondered what makes leaders stand out and I have realized that the most important attribute is their ability to remain clam even in the most trying circumstances, and meditation is surely the route to making calmness an inherent attribute.
As a medical doctor, I realise that in today’s times when so much information is bombarded on the mind of young children, we should encourage meditation right from schools. Even in adult life, meditation should be made a daily habit as it lowers stress levels, lowers blood pressure, improves heart health, and boosts the immune system by reducing the negative effects of stress on the body. This makes the mind and the body calmer, leading to a more relaxed state of mind, making it easier to cope with challenges. Secondly, meditation helps improve focus and concentration as regular meditation trains the mind to stay focused on the present moment, which can improve attention span.
You would have noticed that those who practice meditation show less anxiety and depression as meditation promotes a greater sense of well-being and emotional stability. It encourages mindfulness and self-reflection, which helps develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your thought patterns, leading to personal growth. By quieting the mind and being in a state of relaxation, meditation can enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Once, you start practicing meditation you will find that you have started benefitting in several areas of your life. Regular practice will not only enhance your professional performance but also lead to positive impacts in your personal life.
You will find that by practicing meditation you have a more mindful approach to life, which will help you be more present and engaged in your activities, rather than being distracted or overwhelmed.
Meditation can be done in any form that one feels comfortable. Just observing your breath- inhalation, exhalation or Anulom Vilom or Bhramari…each of these practices give you the same results.
Do try by beginning with a short duration and gradually you will realize that the benefits increase with regular practice which you can adapt to fit into your own lifestyle.