Some myths about meditation prevent some of us from experiencing such a life-changing practice and the benefits that come with it. Let us look at some of these myths and how one can correct them.
Clearing your mind –
- Myth – It is assumed that one needs to clear their mind while meditating. And hence, many do not take up meditation as that sounds like a daunting task. It is quite impossible for the mind not to think about anything at all. After all, that is what a brain does, isn’t it?
- Truth – On the contrary, meditation is not about clearing your mind; instead, it is observing what is going on in mind without any judgment. If your brain starts wandering, you need to bring it back – again and again, consciously!
Not enough time –
- Myth – Most people think that you need a reasonable amount of time to meditate. That’s maybe one of the number one reasons why most don’t delve into it.
- Truth – But meditation takes only a few minutes. And, with the benefits that meditation comes with, practisers find more time as they become more efficient, productive, and present.
Relaxation –
- Myth – Meditation can be done only if you are relaxed. Is that true? In this fast-paced world, it would be an impossible task for a person to be relaxed completely, and thus, meditation would be unlikely.
- Truth – It is the other way around. Meditation helps you alleviate feelings of overwhelm or stress. So, a meditation session would help you gain control over a restless mind. To be able to meditate, you do not have to be at ease.
Proper posture –
- Myth – When one thinks about meditation, it is taken for granted that you have to sit on the floor in a proper cross-legged pose or a lotus yoga pose. So those who find it uncomfortable sitting that way, just don’t get into meditation.
- Truth – All you need to do is sit comfortably and see that your spine is in a straight position for meditation. Try out various positions and adapt what you find is most comfortable and suitable for you.
Years to learn –
- Myth – It is thought that meditation takes a long time to get right and learn the right way.
- Truth – But frankly, there is no right or wrong when it comes to meditation. It needs to be a blissful experience – that’s all there is to it! All you need to ensure is that there is no negativity. Meditation cannot be labeled as good or bad. Just like any other habit or ritual, meditation, or mindfulness needs practice, and it does take time to perfect it or make it work the right way for you. With time, the benefits are enhanced. Meditation can show small, subtle results in a short time.
Relationship with religion –
- Myth – Meditation is mostly related to monks or Buddhism with the “Om” chant.
- Truth – Meditation does root from some spiritual or religious practices. However, the method does not have any affiliation with any kind of religion. It is more about concentration in practice than spirituality. If you want to make it about your faith, again, there is no harm. Meditate and pray to your God of choice.
People who practice meditation are mindful and peaceful –
- Truth – We are all human, and meditation doesn’t change who we are. But yes, it does reduce the stages of mindlessness.
Yoga, non-vegetarian, vegan or hippie –
- Myth – It is assumed that meditation is done only by those who practice yoga or by hippies. People think that you need specific clothing or need to learn yoga or change their diet to a simple one.
- Truth – That might have been the truth at one time, but meditation can be practiced by everyone – anyone interested in calming the mind, boosting creativity, and increasing self-awareness.
Some can only do meditation –
- Myth – Some assume that meditation can only be done by those who are slow or patient. And not by those who are the driven kind or a type-A by personality.
- Truth – However, it is true that anyone can practice meditation. In fact, type-As would have more to gain as their too fast life needs a de-stressing factor. It might be a little difficult for such people to start with meditation because of their fast-paced nature, but it is not impossible.
What meditation cannot do?
Cannot heal psychological wounds:
Meditation is designed to bring in more patience and can be a de-stress session. However, it cannot heal psychological wounds and cannot be a replacement for any kind of psychotherapy. Meditation does have positive effects, but it cannot heal an injured mind. In fact, if done along with psychotherapy, it can bring in good results. Meditation can give one respite from psychological problems, but it cannot heal them.
Cannot solve problems:
Meditation cannot solve one’s problems but can maybe give you some clarity and help you face them. Any stressful situation in life can be made more accessible if one faces it without fear or calm. Meditation practices allow us to cultivate such calmness. Meditation lets us be intimate with ourselves and our pain. It will enable you to practice, not hiding or running away from fears. It helps us deal with our problems in the right way.
Meditation cannot reduce distractions:
Most people try to keep it quiet, maybe lock themselves in a room, use earplugs, and so on. It is right to reduce distractions. However, that is quite unrealistic. The entire purpose of meditation is to observe the distractions and to control your mind such that they do not carry you away.
Meditation is not an escape:
Some assume that meditation is an escape from your problems. No, meditation cannot be an escape from negativity or problems. It gives you awareness, gives you the strength to face them, and maybe neutralize them. When you have strong feelings, the trick is to not avoid them but be aware of them and then return to focus. If you suppress your emotions, it would be detrimental to your health – physical and mental.