Yoga and meditationClarification of meditation
The term "meditation" is actually a paradox, because its translation conveys something that is often considered the greatest obstacle. Meditation goes back to the Latin term "meditatio" and the Greek word "medomai." Both words mean reflection, contemplation, and consideration.
In fact, meditation is primarily about concentrating, "collecting" the mind, and, if possible, achieving a state of emptiness.
Ideally, emerging thoughts shouldn't be explicitly addressed or considered. Instead, you should let them pass and focus on yourself.
Connection between yoga and meditation
Meditation is considered an essential component of yoga. It is considered both a standalone exercise and a special spiritual practice intended to focus and calm the psyche or mind.
Meditation is not tied to any particular religion and can be practiced by atheists and agnostics alike. It serves as a means of inner contemplation and a direct connection with oneself. Yoga offers a variety of meditation techniques designed to relax both the body and mind. When the entire system is at peace and calm, stress is reduced, and the body regenerates. Positive effects are often observed, such as the regulation of pain, heart rate, and blood pressure, and a strengthening of the entire immune system. Many meditating yogis state that they are only able to cope with their daily workload and intense encounters because they meditate regularly. Meditation helps them build a certain resilience against the demands of everyday life and deal effectively with stressors and their own resources. The meditation techniques are a helpful part of yoga in this regard.
Many people who practice yoga exercises also meditate, sometimes without even knowing it. Asanas performed in silence, in which a posture is held still for a certain period of time and one concentrates on the breath, is already a form of meditation.
Forms and framework of meditation
Meditations are often accompanied by many different aspects that give them structure and help the meditator concentrate. The variations are diverse and are usually based on mindfulness exercises or special breathing techniques. Other forms of meditation include a mantra or a personal affirmation that is repeated mentally and also serves to focus on one's center. The mantra "Om" is probably one of the most well-known forms. It is also possible to choose a German word that the meditator associates with something. Such a personal mantra could be "calm" or "peace," for example.
A helpful practice, especially for beginners , is a recurring period of time that is firmly integrated into daily life and serves to establish a general sense of regularity. Early morning and dusk in the evening are considered ideal. If possible, a quiet, undisturbed space should be available that no one enters during meditation to avoid distractions.
Practical application
The essence of yoga meditation is a comfortable, upright sitting position combined with calm breathing. Here, it's important not to view any wandering thoughts as a distraction, but rather to let them pass by calmly. It's not helpful to force yourself to calm down, as this would achieve the opposite. Rather, it's about focusing and concentrating on your breathing, which requires some practice, especially at the beginning.
Meditation beginners are well advised to practice for a maximum of five minutes. The duration should be increased slowly and gradually to avoid overexertion. Attending an introductory meditation seminar can often be helpful. In many cases, a few minutes of meditation are also integrated into a regular yoga class, usually at the beginning and end of the practice session.
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