 Tutorial for October 2023
LIFE IS A MEDITATION Meditation is a practice that encompasses various methods and approaches and the choice of which you practice depends on your preferences. The primary focus of meditation is not to escape the reality of living life, but to allow life to be a meditation as it is. There are two very common forms of meditation. One involves the use of a mantra to concentrate your attention on a specific object, word or phrase, thought, sound, or bodily sensation. Mantras or chants can help to anchor your mind and prevent it from wandering. Another very common form of meditation involves paying attention to your breath. Breath awareness helps cultivate mindfulness, and mindfulness meditation highlights full presence in the moment without judgment. The form of meditation you choose makes no difference in outcome, what is important is to allow your meditation to permeate your consciousness and influence your daily life. Meditation practice compels you to observe your thoughts, emotions, and sensations as they arise, without getting attached to them. While external distractions may be present, meditation encourages inner silence and a still mind. Let this inner silence and stillness become the core of your being by engaging all aspects of you in every moment of your life. Viewing life as a meditation is a perspective of life that emphasizes presence, and a deep sense of awareness in everyday experiences. Just as meditation encourages you to be fully present with your breath or a mantra, living life as a meditation involves being fully present in whatever you are doing. Whether you are eating, walking, working, or engaging in any activity, you aspire to do it with complete attention and awareness. You learn to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment when meditating and apply this skill in life situations. In life as in meditation, you become an observer of your inner experiences as they arise in various life situations. This allows you to respond more skillfully rather than reacting impulsively. Meditation centers on the "here and now." In life as in meditation, you practice focusing on the present moment and avoid dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This helps reduce anxiety and enhances the quality of your experiences. Meditation allows you to practice acceptance of what is. Embracing a meditative approach to life’s ups and downs means accepting life's gifts and challenges without excessive attachment to outcomes. You come to be able to flow with the ever-changing circumstances of life. Meditation encourages simplicity and contentment with the present moment. In life, adopting this perspective allows you to find joy in the simple things, appreciating the beauty of ordinary moments. Meditation fosters compassion, both for yourself and others. Living life as a meditation encourages empathy and understanding in your interactions with people, enhancing your relationships. Introspection and self-discovery are naturally cultivated with a practice of meditation. Living life as a meditation involves periodic self-reflection, examining your actions, motivations, and values to align your life with your inner truths. A meditative approach to life often leads to a search for purpose and meaning beyond material pursuits. You may contemplate questions about the nature of existence and your place in the world. Gratitude is a common theme in meditation practices. Living life as a meditation includes cultivating a sense of gratitude for the experiences and people in your life. It's important to note that life as a meditation is not just a beautiful concept, it's also a continuous practice that requires commitment and mindfulness. It doesn't mean avoiding responsibilities or challenges but rather engaging with them from a place of mindfulness and presence. Over time, adopting this perspective while integrating meditation into your life can lead to a more fulfilling, peaceful, and meaningful life. The boundaries which define meditation as something other than life start to dissipate, and life comes to be seen as a meditation. With a sense of the continuity of meditation and life, mindfulness and presence become a more natural and consistent part of your day. If you are new to meditation, aim for just a few minutes of practice each day. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the duration until you can sense a cohesive integration of meditation and life has occurred. One simple practice we recommend is to choose a word of the day to become the day’s mantra. For example, you choose the word “generosity.” You focus that day on all the ways you can be generous or notice another’s generosity. Repeating the word from time to time during the day can remind you of the practice of generosity during daily activities. Embrace whatever arises for you and simply be who you are in every moment. Let life be a meditation and let meditation be life. Whatever technique you use makes no difference. Your sincerity and open hearted approach to life as a meditation is all you need.
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