What is Meditation?
Meditation is defined differently by many. To me, meditation is about clearing our minds of the incessant thought patterns that we partake in most of the day. Through our meditation practice, we can become the observer of our own thoughts, and see things from a clearer perspective, more in tune with our true nature. It is a chance for us to connect to something deeper within ourselves. When we are able to find a sense of calm within the mind, the body will benefit deeply as well. I utilize many types of mindfulness meditation, visualization, and breathing techniques in my teaching/
Sound is another amazing option. Why Sound?
Sound is an incredibly powerful tool that can be used to help people move into a state of meditation, or quieting of the mind, with little effort. It is very beginner-friendly, as we all have an innate connection to sound. When we utilize sound, we engage our senses to connect within. Sound becomes a tool to focus our awareness on, which leads to clearing the mind. Sound in it’s simplest form is vibration. Every cell in our body is in a state of vibration. Studies have shown that sound may help change our brain waves from Beta to Alpha or Theta (the more relaxing varieties). My favorite sounds are created through crystal bowls, Tibetan bowls, chimes, etc.
Scientific benefits of meditation:
**Stress Reduction**
**Increased Immune Function**
**Decreases Pain**
**Decreases Anxiety**
**Decreases Depression**
**Increases Emotional Intelligence**
**Boosts Self Control**
**Increases Memory and Focus** Etc, etc, etc!
“Yoga is like music: the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.”
― B.K.S. Iyengar