Meditation

Overview of Meditation

Meditation refers to a group of techniques through which a person learns to focus his attention and suspend the stream of thoughts that normally occupy the mind. This practice is believed to result in a state of greater physical relaxation, mental calmness, and psychological balance. Practicing meditation can change how a person relates to the flow of emotions and thoughts in the mind. Most types of meditation have common elements – a quiet location, a comfortable position, a focus of attention, and an open attitude. Meditation is practiced on its own and also as part of some other therapies such as yoga and tai chi.

History of Meditation

Meditation originated with the ancient Buddhist and Hindu religions many thousands of years ago. Buddhism uses mindful meditation based on the idea of being mindful, or living fully in the present moment. Transcendental Meditation is the Hindu approach that uses a mantra (a work, sound or phrase repeated silently) to prevent distracting thoughts from entering the mind. Many other cultures and religions use some form of meditation in their spiritual practices. Meditation became popular in the United States in the 1960’s and 1970’s.

Current/Future Situation

Meditation can be practiced for various reasons such as to increase physical relaxation, mental calmness, and psychological balance; to cope with a disease or health condition; and for overall wellness. Some of the health problems meditation helps are anxiety, pain, depression, mood and self-esteem problems, stress, insomnia, and some symptoms associated with chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer. The modern world is full of people who suffer from many of these health issues and who could benefit from the practice of meditation.

Career Descriptions/Places to Work

Those who learn and teach meditation can work in various settings. Some work in healthcare clinics that specialize in cancer or heart patients. Others work in health clubs and fitness centers. As interest in alternative health care continues to increase and the benefits of meditation become more well known, the opportunities will also increase.

Day in the Life as a Teacher of Mediation

A teacher of meditation who works in a cancer clinic may start her day with a patient who wants to reduce the pain experienced from chemotherapy treatments. The teacher will have the patient sit in a comfortable chair in a quiet room. Then she will have the patient focus on her breathing or repeat a mantra to try to gain control over her thoughts. Once meditation is learned, it relaxes the patient’s mind and body, and the perception of pain is usually lessened. A session lasts at least 20 minutes. A teacher may instruct several patients each day. It is very rewarding to be able to help patients reduce the pain they are experiencing.

Graduate/Professional Quote

“Meditation and concentration are the way to a life of serenity.” – Remez Sasson

Stat/Fact/Tip of the Day

Scientists are studying how meditation works. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine are supporting research on the effects of meditation on rheumatoid arthritis, chronic lower back pain, and heart disease.

Meditation can be practiced sitting, standing and lying supine.

Good communication skills and the desire to help people are necessary for success in this occupation.

Sources
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine website
HealTalk.com
Meditation Society of America website

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