Modern medicine has extended lifespans, but it has not delivered the peace and harmony it promised. Stress-related ailments — anxiety, depression, insomnia and other psychological disorders — are now widespread. The mind–body relationship remains one of humanity’s greatest challenges: despite technological progress and material comfort, genuine quality of life, measured in love, happiness, peace and contentment, can stay out of reach.
The answer lies in caring for mental wellbeing through meditation and relaxation. These practices cleanse deep-seated stresses and blocks from the sub-conscious mind, increase self-awareness and sensitivity, and support emotional development and balanced personal growth.
What is meditation?
Meditation means to think deeply and constantly by focusing the attention of the mind on a chosen object, concept or specific thought. Long practised by Indian sages as a spiritual discipline, its therapeutic value is now established by modern science. Today it is both a scientific and a spiritual practice, accessible to everyone.
How to practise
- Sit comfortably on the floor or a chair, with the back perpendicular.
- Take ten deep breaths.
- Close the eyes gently and focus the attention between the eyebrows.
- Mentally repeat “Shaanthi” (peace and bliss) for about thirty minutes, without moving the lips or tongue.
- Keep the concentration easy and natural throughout.
Do not resist thoughts — they are a sign of the sub-conscious purifying itself. If difficulty arises, take 10–15 deep breaths and continue. Practise in the morning and evening, at your convenience.
Benefits
- Checks the aggravation of disease
- Eliminates mental ailments by neutralising accumulated tension in the nervous system
- Complements (does not replace) medication — improving its efficacy and reducing side effects
- Produces a deep relaxation called Yoganidra that repairs physical wear and tear
Meditation complements, but is not a substitute for, sleep or medical care.
Read more about the social dimension of meditation.