You're right, meditation can really help with most of life's struggles. Plus, like you said, there's a lot of science to back it up. Even psych therapists are recommending mindfulness and meditation these days! It's a pleasure to connect with you!
Yes! I love the whole “east meets west” thing. There is so much going on these days with science that connects back to ancient Indian traditions. It’s really exciting to see.
I started meditating this year Sophie and it has helped me to go through this phase of my life.
I can only say I should have started earlier. But now that I see clearly the benefits I won’t stop.
You’re right about embracing spirituality and I can say it is different from person to person. We are different and as Jung says we are seeking answers within ourselves and not outside of ourselves.
and thank you for your thoughtful comment - I didn't realise that the refined definition of yoga is connection. Connections are really at the root of our human experience...
That immersive meditation experience sounds like the author's experience in the book, The Empty Mirror. Absolute silence & sitting in a Zen monastery in Kyoto for a session called Rohatsu. I still have the book somewhere.
I try meditating using an ankle exercise machine with chants playing on Youtube.
i loved reading this! i’m relatively new to meditation and trying to deepen my spiritual practice. like you said, it has made a huge difference in my mental health. i’m considering doing a meditation teacher training but these 10 day courses terrify me😅
You're right, meditation can really help with most of life's struggles. Plus, like you said, there's a lot of science to back it up. Even psych therapists are recommending mindfulness and meditation these days! It's a pleasure to connect with you!
Absolutely therapists are recommending it now! Thanks for reading and commenting Nicole
Yes! I love the whole “east meets west” thing. There is so much going on these days with science that connects back to ancient Indian traditions. It’s really exciting to see.
I started meditating this year Sophie and it has helped me to go through this phase of my life.
I can only say I should have started earlier. But now that I see clearly the benefits I won’t stop.
You’re right about embracing spirituality and I can say it is different from person to person. We are different and as Jung says we are seeking answers within ourselves and not outside of ourselves.
Glad you discovered meditation and that it's been helpful for you 😊 Always good to hear from you Mario!
I love how you’ve broken down spirituality as something that goes beyond religion and touches on how we live our lives and align with our values.
I've found small moments of mindfulness, like pausing to play with my squirrel friends on the front porch.
I have 4 of them now :)
It’s more about being present wherever you are.
Happy weekend, Sophie :)
so jealous of your 4 squirrel friends. there’s not nearly enough pictures of them on your substack! You enjoy your weekend Neela :-)
Thank you 🙏
/// Connection /// in my own inner work + explorations and in my work with clients it often dwindles down to CONNECTION.
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And, the refined definition of “Yoga” is connection.
.
Self ♾️ Universe
Individuality ♾️ Universality
In breath ♾️ Out breath
Inner ♾️ Outer
Matter ♾️ Spirit
.
Where is one feeling disconnected? And, what supports one to feel connected to that which they value — feel nourished — fed by most?
.
And, meditation is a practice where we can intentionally make those connections once again. A dedicated time to come home to the Self. ✨
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Thank you Sophie for this thoughtful article. I appreciate your research and personal shares.
and thank you for your thoughtful comment - I didn't realise that the refined definition of yoga is connection. Connections are really at the root of our human experience...
That immersive meditation experience sounds like the author's experience in the book, The Empty Mirror. Absolute silence & sitting in a Zen monastery in Kyoto for a session called Rohatsu. I still have the book somewhere.
I try meditating using an ankle exercise machine with chants playing on Youtube.
Oh I'll have to check that book out!
HMM..... it may still be in print. I got in back in the 70s.
Oh it may be difficult to find then...
A local used book store might be worth browsing through. Or a college book & supply store......
i loved reading this! i’m relatively new to meditation and trying to deepen my spiritual practice. like you said, it has made a huge difference in my mental health. i’m considering doing a meditation teacher training but these 10 day courses terrify me😅