Archive for the ‘Meditation’ Category

There are four Brain-Wave Patterns in which we can function.  Beta, Alpha, Theta and Delta.
Please click Meditation Explained if you wish to know the Background information for this article.

Briefly; You experience Beta brain-wave patterns in engaging activities like when you are driving or working. (Anxiety and Stress are experienced at the top end of this Beta range). Alpha patterns occur when you are more relaxed and brain activity has slowed. (Watching television, reading a book). Theta brain-waves are most commonly encountered in dreams, or at moments of deep insight. And the slowest state, Delta, occurs in deep, deep sleep, or by the masters while in meditation.

Meditate Deeper Than a Zen Monk

Now I once saw an advertisement that promised I could meditate deeper than a Zen Monk in 10 seconds. I thought it was an outrageous claim that made fun of those who practice this art form with devotion – but I had to check it out anyway.

And here is how they support that claim… If you listen to specific aural frequencies, your brain interprets the information it receives. By playing a specially created piece of audio with either an Alpha, Theta or Delta wave form pattern, your brain starts to operate at that same frequency.

Yes… you are tricking your brain into doing what you want.

Now this is a relatively new invention in the evolution of meditation, in that traditional meditation has been practiced for thousands of years and the electronic equipment and scientific know-how has evolved of late.

But why would you dedicate your life to spiritual pursuit, by sitting in the lotus position on top of a mountain in the middle of winter trying to reach the Delta state, when you can just put on the headphones? Good question.

What the Experts Say

I had a good look around for a trust-worthy source of this information. I didn’t want some kid with a synthesizer messing around with my brain! Who I found was Jim McElwee from The Unexplainable Store. They guarantee Altered States of Consciousness with a 100% No Risk Guarantee. That’s fair enough… but the testimonials page they have on their site has some really well-thought comments and some glowing recommendations. That is what sold me.

But before anything further, let’s see what Jim says about the History of Binaural Beats.

History Of Binaural Beats: Binaural Beats were discovered by Heinrich Wilhelm Dove in 1839, and were considered somewhat of a curiosity in scientific circles. 140 years later, a man named Gerald Oster wrote an article entitled “Auditory Beats in the Brain.” The article tied all previous research regarding Binaural Beats together, and concluded that it would be a powerful tool in neurological and cognitive research. In particular, he noted how animals are able to pick out specific sounds in a sea of noise in much the same way that people can pick up a conversation in the midst of a noisy cocktail party – hence the name “the cocktail party effect.” The technology was later developed by physicist Thomas Campbell and Dennis Menerich with the assistance of Robert Monroe. Together they found the first applications of Binaural Beats, including a program for out of body experiences. Research continues to this day, as new tools come out to assist people in realizing their dreams and leading better, more empowered lives.

There are three new terms to become familiar with; Binaurals, Monaurals, and Isochronics. Sound like science-fiction? Well, it’s actually science-fact! Again, this info is ripped strait from their site (with permission).

What Binaural Beats Are: Binaural Beats are Not a passing fad, but have been researched for over 170 years. The human brain goes through many frequency cycles every day, each frequency producing different effects in the human consciousness. Using this information, it has been discovered that the receiving and operating frequency of the brain can be altered and even controlled through the use of sound waves. Unfortunately, it was originally thought these waves were difficult or impossible to tap through sound waves since they happened beneath the 20 Hz range. Since that time, however, binaural beats have made it possible to hear what was previously thought unhearable.

How Binaural Beats Work: Binaural Beats work by broadcasting two separate frequencies in each ear. For example, if you wanted to tune your brain to a 7 Hz frequency, you could play 200 Hz in your right ear, and 207 Hz in your left ear. The brain will compensate for the difference between the two and produce a third tone that will be exactly 7 Hz. This will result in your brain frequency being raised or lowered, and tuned to the desired operating stage. Headphones are mandatory with Binaurals.

How Monaural Beats Work: Monaural Beats differ from Binaural Beats as they are easier on your brain. With Monaural Beats there is no need to balance tones, and therefore no adjusting time required. With one tone pulsing on and off a specific pattern, it’s easy to produce the effect you’re looking for quickly. The Monaural beats offer superior technology over the Binaural. Headphones are optional but recommended.

How Isochronic Tones Work: Isochronic tones are the most powerful type of brainwave entrainment, utilizing equal intensity tones, increasing the pulse speed, and synchronizing your brain with the rhythm. Isochronics use a distinct and clean wave form which is designed to harmonize with the brain much more efficiently. Headphones are optional but recommended.

Do they sound different to listen to? More on that in a minute…

But I think a question we should all ask is; Are Binaural Beats Dangerous? Brainwave Entrainment uses the exact same frequencies that we touch upon everyday in our daily lives. They simply allow you to reach certain levels of consciousness On Demand. You should consult with a doctor before using Binaural Beats if you have heart problems, a history of mental illness, or any other factors that you’re not sure about.

Also, keep in mind that Brainwave Entrainment affects your brain frequencies dramatically while in use. You can go into a state similar to sleep or suddenly find yourself functioning at your most mentally active and creative level while using them. Obviously, you should not drive or operate heavy machinery while using Binaural Beats.

In Practice

The Difference Between Recordings: We often receive questions inquiring about the difference between recordings. Many of our descriptions sound alike and people may assume that the recordings are basically the same. This is not the case. Each recording is different, and each recording is tuned for a specific purpose. Example- 4.2 Hz and 6.3 Hz are both within the Theta Range, but exhibit totally different characteristics. The four main frequency classifications are large and vague ranges, and within these classifications are an array of frequency options which all produce different effects. Also, studies show that exact combination of frequencies cause many documented brain reactions.

This bit grabbed my attention. “We can not publicly disclose the exact frequencies used in our recordings for product protection reasons, but you can be assured each and every recording is specifically tuned to stimulate certain abilities.”

Now I understand how they can promise to assist with such specific interests and desires. When you get to their website, you will see the impressive list of products they have on offer. Check this out for starters…

Astral Projection, Meditation, Manifestation, ESP, Psychic Growth, Anxiety Aid, Shaman Consciousness, Remote Viewing, Spirit Guides, Lucid Dreaming, Past Life Regression, Confidence Builder, Sleep, Christ Consciousness, Chakra Tuning, Aura Viewing, Energy Enhancer, Creativity, DNA Stimulation, Endorphin Release, Health, Motivation, Prosperity, Addiction Help, Relaxation, Weight Loss, Hypnosis, Memory Enhancer and Telepathy… Nice.

I looked into the Meditation Program a little further…

“Once you are comfortable operating in the Alpha State, you can progress to Theta Meditation. To reach Theta, you will need to lower your operating frequency a little bit more. It is widely accepted that Meditating in the Theta State creates a sense of Balance, Calmness, and contributes to better Health. Theta Meditation is said to be the ‘Gateway to Eternal Bliss’.

What to Expect From Our Meditation Recordings: Simply stated, our Meditation Recordings will Alter your consciousness and help you find that peaceful escape you are searching for. Our recordings will lower your brain frequencies and put you in the Alpha, Theta and Delta states. You will hear peaceful nature sounds and harmonics with True Entrainment Frequencies in the background which will be responsible for your Shift in Consciousness.

Try It For Yourself

As they say… the proof is in the pudding. You can read about this form of meditation all day… but until you put on the headphones and take some time to chill… you will never know how it feels and what it can do for you.

Now, my website is called Explore Meditation after all, so I do encourage you to have a play. I’ve downloaded a sample of each delivery method… and like they say… It’s simply Nature Sounds, Harmonics and some brain-wave magic in the background. I really enjoyed it!

Please click The Unexplainable Store to get there. Its my affiliate link – so that if you do make a purchase I get a few dollars for the recommendation, but to try all 3 free samples and experience this form of meditation yourself, (from a trusted source), you just need to give them your email address. They are a good business. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Once you have had a listen, please return to my blog and share your experience of Binaural, Monaural and Isochronic meditation programs.

In Love and Light, We Explore! Nigel Coates

Ever Carried the Weight of the World on Your Shoulders?

One of the main reasons I became so passionate about Guided Meditation, is because I was getting amazing results in my massage treatments.

Now the immediate link may not be apparent, but think of sayings like… “Carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders”.

People who are overcome by burden, responsibility, pressure and stress, literally hunch over as their muscles become tighter. Their shoulders become rigid and their brow furrowed. Their life is hard work!

I would meet clients in this state, and believe me, no amount of rubbing would give lasting effect if the problem itself did not go away.

With problems caused by finance for example – massage was a temporary fix. They were still facing the same hardships when they got home.

:: So What Worked? ::

By talking with clients during the treatment, and getting them to change their focus from the dark to the light – and by looking at the positive factors in their life, I was getting more benefit than rubbing harder.

When they left my clinic it was with freshened perspective and a spring in their step. The same pressures were there, but now seen as a challenge or hurdle rather than an impassable mountain.

Helping one person at a time is rewarding, but helping many is even more so. I started to record dialogue, and began intense study into what works best in a Guided Meditation. Exploring the positive effects of Guided Meditation became my passion.

As well as sending clients home with stretching exercises, I also gave them meditation exercises. A common reaction was, ‘I’ve tried to meditate and I can’t do it.’ To which I would reply, ‘Well not with that attitude’.

We all start with training wheels when we learn to ride a bike. No one runs a marathon as soon as they decide to get fit. If you are chronically stressed, 10 minutes won’t fix you… but it will help.

This email is simply to give you encouragement with your practice. Don’t compare your effort or results with others… just look at the positives meditation has achieved for you.

If my world was perfect I would meditate for 30 minutes every day… but just because I don’t do that doesn’t mean I have failed. I celebrate every time I do get to meditate, not reprimand myself for every time I don’t.

You may be a beginner or experienced meditator, but either way, you have been subscribed to my newsletter for a while now. Just take a moment to reflect on how meditation is fitting into your life… and how you would like it to be. Then work with the positives you find.

:: The Sign Off ::

Meditation can be a spiritual experience, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a ’spiritual person’ to do it well. Business executives can meditate. Garbage cleaners can meditate. Children can meditate. It’s not something that you can or can’t do. It’s a personal journey… that can provide many rewards.

How does meditation fit into your life? What are the barriers you face? And how have you overcome them? What works for you… A weekly class, random times when you listen to MP3s? Do you meditate first thing or last thing in your day?

Share your thoughts below so that others may learn. It’s a personal journey – which we are all in together.

For now, for those of you who are interested in the physical effects of Meditation, I give you this link to an article I wrote recently called;

The Secret Health Benefits of Guided Meditation.

It explains how the 11 body systems are in continual change as they strive for internal balance, and what you can easily do to help this process

I would like to present you with a special opportunity to Rocket-Launch your spiritual growth.

It is a Meditation Certification Program created by one of the worlds most recognized spiritual experts… Anmol Mehta.

He frequently speaks to the world via his Mastery of Meditation, Yoga and Zen website, (www.AnmolMehta.com) trying to provide all people of the world with the very best tools, techniques and wisdom to help them reach their highest human potential.

“Of all the things you can do in life, I assure you that the path of spirituality is the one that offers the ultimate challenge and the most treasured rewards. It is the highest purpose of human life, so dive in and join the adventure!” Anmol Mehta.

Anmol’s Meditation Training Program

Your Certificate??

His Meditation training program is so extensive; Personally, you will reach new spiritual heights and confidently be able to teach others what you have learnt. Starting your own business or running your own meditation classes might not be what you have in mind, but it does demonstrate just how good this program is.

Anmol suggests that 8 weeks is the average time taken to complete the meditation course, but moving through the material faster or slower is just fine.

Before you receive your certificate, you must pass an exam. But don’t stress, it is an open book exam which only asks questions about the material covered in the course. If for any reason you fail, you can simply take the test again and again until you pass.

Anmol says, “This training program is comprehensive. No secrets, wisdom or knowledge is withheld. In addition to learning the profound art of meditation, you will also be taught Yoga and Pranayama, as well as the practical wisdom on how to run a successful meditation center and create a high traffic meditation web site.”

What You Will Learn

Here is some of what the program teaches you.

• Learn Basic Meditation Techniques
• Learn Advanced Meditation Techniques
• Learn Gentle Yoga
• Learn Pranayama (Yoga Breathing Exercises)
• Learn the Fundamentals of Enlightened Living
• Learn How to Teach a Meditation Class
• Learn How to Run a Successful Meditation Center
• Learn How to Build a High Traffic Meditation Web Site
• How to Help Spread the Light and Uplift the World
• And How to Earn a Good Living doing something You Love

“This is a complete multi-media home study course to train you in the profound art of meditation, and make you capable of training others as well. Today there is no greater need than spiritual teachers and guides, and there is no greater calling either.

This program is designed to help you become a master meditator and raise your level of consciousness, and also, to teach you how to help others do the same.

This program fulfills my vision to create great teachers to spread the light of wisdom and Truth and it is my deepest pleasure and honor to offer it to you all.

Content

In this program, I do not withhold any wisdom or knowledge.
The Mastery of Meditation Training Manual used in this program is a 370 page fully illustrated e-book, which consists of material developed and perfected over 3 years.

I will not just teach you all there is to know about meditation, yoga for meditation and pranayama, but I will also share with you all the industry secrets on how to run a successful meditation center and a high traffic yoga and meditation web site.

This will let you earn a living, while walking this noblest of paths.”

What you will receive in the Training Program

1. Mastery of Meditation Teacher’s Training Manual (77 Chapters / 370 Pages):

This extensive and detailed eBook comes complete with full-color illustrations and active web links. The links allow you to access additional material you may wish to study in order to deepen your knowledge and understanding of meditation, yoga and enlightened living.

The book will not just help you navigate the course easily, but will also serve as an excellent reference manual for you once you begin to teach your own classes.

2. 15 Highly Acclaimed Meditation, Yoga and Pranayama Videos:

To ensure you learn the techniques correctly and precisely, this program comes with 15 online videos. The videos teach and demonstrate all the important meditation, yoga and pranayama techniques used in the program. The videos are all excellent quality and have received nearly 1 million views so far. Each video also has an accompanying chapter in the training manual, which gives you the necessary details about the techniques being taught.

3. Meditation Teacher Certification:

Upon successful completion of the program you will receive a signed certificate and a letter of recommendation from Anmol Mehta and Mastery of Meditation and Yoga, indicating you have passed the Meditation Teacher’s Training Program and are fully qualified to teach both basic and advanced Meditation.

4. Online Web Listings on Mastery Meditation and Yoga Teachers Directory Page:

Upon graduating you and your meditation center, will be listed in the Certified Meditation Teachers and Meditation Centers Directory.

5. Free Subscription to the Meditation Teacher’s Newsletter:

Being part of the training program gives you exclusive access to the Mastery of Meditation Teacher’s Training Newsletter. This newsletter is sent only to the enrolled students and graduates, and is packed with key information, tips and free gifts to help you succeed as a meditation teacher.

Click Here to view more information about what you will receive.

Your Investment

How Much do you need to invest in your Spiritual / Business Future?

Well, Anmol is currently trialing a Super Special Price – so I don’t want to list it here in case he raises it really soon. If you are at all interested in this comprehensive training material please click this Meditation Certificate Program link for the latest price. But no matter what is…

Believe me – it’s NOT an expense … IT’S AN INVESTMENT … in Yourself!

But take note anyway: You get a 30 day, 100%, No Questions Asked, Money Back Guarantee. (No one has ever asked him for a refund though!) But there is absolutely no risk to you.

You can use either PayPal or your Credit Card. It is 100% secure and you have 100% money back guarantee. As soon as your order has been processed you will be taken to a download page.

The Sign Off

It’s funny what things we will spend money on. Yes, times are tough for many, but why is it that so often, others come first? Justifying a valid purchase for youself should not be such a hurdle. You Are Worth It!

This is an investment in your future, and one that will take your knowledge of meditation to a place where you could naturally teach others. That might not be what you want to do… But that is the depth of knowledge you will have in just 8 weeks.

Yes I am an affiliate for Anmol. I chose his Meditation Training Program? … because I wish I’d created it myself! It really is that good.

He has delivered such amazing knowledge (It’s first class) and he has such a strong belief in the goodness of humanity, it makes me happy to support his efforts to make the world a better place.

Click Here to visit Anmol’s website to see if the discount is still current, what the Bonus Gifts are, and to read the glowing testimonials from recent graduates.

Everything you need to know for your own Spiritual Growth, plus the option to teach others! This really is an amazing opportunity.

Click Here to Invest in Your Future.

In Love and Light, We Explore! Nigel Coates

If you are yet to subscribe to the Explore Meditation Newsletter, please do so here.

I have created the Explore Meditation website and newsletter as a resource to assist others on their spiritual path.

You can find detailed information on

• How to Meditate
• Meditation Techniques
• Guided Meditation MP3’s
• Meditation Videos
• And this Meditation Blog (Where you can discuss your views with other like minded people)

The newsletter covers Meditation and Spiritual growth topics – broken down in to bite-sized learning.

Content

All of the information on the website and newsletter is non-denominational. I don’t suppose that any one religion, spiritual practice, or meditation technique is better than another. I do aim to fuel your thoughts, make you question your existence, and give you the tools and techniques to assist your learning and spiritual growth.

Choose only to believe what resonates true with you. Direct your learning’s towards the areas that draw your interest. Discuss your thoughts on the blog.

There are already great websites that deal specifically with Buddhist Meditation, Vipassana Meditation and Transcendental Meditation. Wherever appropriate throughout my website, I’ll point you to these external sites for specific information. But what originally gave me the idea to create Explore Meditation, was the distinct lack of quality websites covering Guided Meditation.

Guided Meditation

I had played on YouTube and iTunes – but I quickly realized that I didn’t want to trust my spiritual well-being to an anonymous stranger with ‘half an idea’ and a microphone. I had several awkward moments where my intuitive mind pulled me out of these mediations; leaving me with the feeling something wasn’t right.

I have meditated for over 10 years in various circles and simply wished I could re-listen to my teachers and guides… the Guides I trusted.

And so, I hand picked these professional therapists, who earn their living as spiritual practitioners, and recorded some amazing guided meditations to assist us all walk further down our spiritual path. It gives me great satisfaction to share these tools with you.

Don’t get me wrong, there are some amazing products online… But I don’t want to pay $30 for a CD that I can’t even preview, and I don’t want to trawl through all the free stuff hoping for a gem.

I will introduce the Explore Meditation therapists in time, but know they are all exceptional Mediums, Clairvoyants, Hypnotherapists, NLP practitioners, Spiritual and Energetic healers. All are well qualified and have extensive experience in their chosen fields. People pay top dollar and travel from afar for time with them, but now you can access their expertise with just a few clicks. All of the Meditations have free previews as well, so you know what you are getting.

The Sign Off

So, Explore Meditation covers the theory of meditation (both spiritual and scientific) and the practical. Listen to the MP3’s or try the Meditation exercises you will find in time.

The feedback I have received from the visitors before you has been really amazing and encouraging. Many people have had real breakthroughs in intuition, insight and connection. Being able to help you walk your path is my service.

I am so very glad you are now part of this creation, and I’m looking forward to your further involvement.

So once again, thank you for joining the Explore Meditation community, It’s great to have you on board.

In Love and Light, We Explore!

Nigel Coates
info@ExploreMeditation.com

I came across a great article on Michaela Scherr’s website called…
Eenie, Meenie, Minee, Mo, Which Meditation is Mine to Know?

“Sometimes when I’ve mentioned the word ‘meditate’ in the past to some of my clients, almost immediately their response would be “I’ve already tried to meditate, it doesn’t work for me.”

It is a common perception for beginner’s to hold about meditation… ‘That you can either do it – or you can’t’.

If you can relate to this belief, please click the link above to read the full article. It does a great job of explaining basic ways you can introduce meditation into your life, (and she is definitely not suggesting to go on a Buddhist retreat or sit for hours in the lotus pose). How about… Writing with the non-dominant hand, or counting stuff?

Michaela also lists ten basic points to help your practice take hold. It’s a well written article, aimed at the beginner meditator, obviously drawing from great personal and practical experience.

In her words, “I’m here to let you know that there are many different styles of meditation, all you need to do is test drive some of them to see if there’s one right for you.”

Michaela Scherr is a personal change facilitator and intuitive business consultant based in Brisbane Australia.

Namaste

I send a lot of email in my day to day – be they personal, or promotional for Explore Meditation. As a creative spirit I get bored easily when stuck in a pattern, so when it comes to the sign off I always try to be different.

All the best, Kindest regards, At your service, In Love and Light, Till then then…

But I was always intrigued by the one I was never game to use – Namaste.

I have heard it in my spiritual circles over the years but did not really know what it meant. I asked a few friends who had strong ideas – but their ideas were different. But then I remembered that little internet thingy called Wikipedia.

And no wonder I was confused! It’s worth a look just for the laugh. But I digress.

Namaste: “The Divine In Me – Salutes – The Divine In You!”

A polite bow of greeting or farewell used by Hindus, made with the hands held at chest height and both palms pressed together.
But as it is an ancient Hindustani word – the translation is open to interpretation.

* “I honor the Spirit in you which is also in me.”
* “I salute the God within you.”
* “Your spirit and my spirit are ONE.”
* “That which is of God in me greets that which is of God in you.”
* “The Divinity within me perceives and adores the Divinity within you.”
* “All that is best and highest in me greets/salutes all that is best and highest in you.”
* “I greet the God within.”
* “I bow to you. The light within me honors the light within you.”
And my favorite…
* “I honor the place in you in which the entire Universe dwells, I honor the place in you which is of Love, of Integrity, of Wisdom and of Peace. When you are in that place in you, and I am in that place in me, we are One.”

How can one small word mean all that!

That’s all for now.

Check Michaela’s Blog – she has some great information…

And try to use the word Namaste in a sentence. When asked what it means – have a go at that last translation

Meditation can be used for many things. Increased connection with your true-self, to reduce stress, for spiritual growth, to calm a busy mind, for creative inspiration… and for Healing.

Self-healing in Meditation can be very powerful, with many individuals using it to overcome pain, dysfunction and disease. Medical research is lagging far behind the accepted benefits from those who have experienced its power first hand, but as it’s an individual experience, what a doctor tells you what will and wont work is irrelevant.

When meditating with healing in mind, it is important to set your intent before you begin. It clarifies your purpose, gives direction to your practice, and lets the universe know what you are wanting to achieve.

The following extract is taken from The Beginners Guide to Yoga and Meditation, which is a $7.95 ebook available from the Explore Meditation website.

The Color Healing Meditation

We are not just our physical selves. We are multidimensional beings, composed of an Inner Spirit, a mental body, an emotional body, a vital body, and a physical body.

The energy of these bodies becomes progressively subtler from physical to spiritual. Illness begins with disharmony in one of these energy bodies. If not harmonized, the disease moves inward, affecting the denser bodies, ultimately manifesting as physical illness.

Total healing requires restoring harmony to all of our bodies. This meditation is designed to cleanse and harmonize your various bodies with the healing energies of color.

Color healing meditation will provide you with cleansing, balancing, & healing at all levels: Spiritual, Mental, Emotional, Vital, & Physical. It also will develop concentration & visualization abilities.

The Practice

1. Sit comfortably with your eyes closed.

2. Visualize a large ball of radiant Golden light a few inches over your head. Visualize that ball of light slowly descending through your crown, filling your entire being with golden light.

3. Imagine yourself absorbing that light as it nourishes, cleanses & heals your whole being – your Spirit and all of your bodies – dissolving all blocked and toxic energies.

4. Repeat this exercise, visualizing a ball of Red light. Continue through the entire spectrum like this, visualizing a ball of Orange light; Yellow light; Green light; Blue light; Indigo light; and Violet light. Go through the spectrum at whatever pace feels appropriate.

5. Take some time to visualize yourself in a state of perfect, radiant health.

Don’t let the simplicity of this Color Healing Meditation fool you… It can be very powerful. Setting intent and dedicating regular time for practice can ease minor discomfort, give insight into the true cause of pain, and indeed, as has been proven anecdotally by many, to cure dysfunction and disease.

Of course, always consult a medical professional… but look for one with an open mind

In Love and Light, We Explore! Nigel Coates

There is something special about the sound of Tibetan Bowls when in meditation.

For me, I can ‘feel’ their energy, and it is as though I too am transformed by the vibration into a lighter, higher and finer vibration. I
am then free to travel to amazing places – without anchor to the real world.

For those unfamiliar with Tibetan Music Bowls, I’ve included a few excerpts from Wikipedia, and a link to a video of a meditation using these sounds below.

Tibetan bowls are a type of bell that sit with the bottom surface resting. The sides and rim of singing bowls vibrate to produce sound. Singing bowls have a long history with origins spread throughout Asia. Today they are employed worldwide both within and without these spiritual traditions, for meditation, trance-induction, relaxation, healthcare, personal well-being and religious practice

In Buddhist practice, singing bowls are used as a support for meditation, trance induction and prayer. For example, Chinese Buddhists use the singing bowl to accompany the wooden fish during chanting, striking it when a particular phrase in a sutra, mantra or hymn is sung. In Japan and Vietnam, singing bowls are similarly used during chanting and may also mark the passage of time or signal a change in activity.

The use of singing bowls in Tibet is the subject of much debate and many stories. Some people say they were used for meditation while others say they were magical tools for transformation of self and of matter. However, neither theory is supported by reference to any Tibetan religious sources and indeed there is no evidence that Tibetans ever employed bowls in a religious context for anything other than receptacle purposes.

Both Antique and New Bowls are widely used as an aid to meditation (see the “Meditation and the brain” section in Meditation) and as a tool for trance induction. They are also used in yoga, music therapy, sound healing, religious services, performance and for personal enjoyment.

My friends at Yoga South Africa have posted a short video of a meditation session they held with Tibetan bowls as the sound track.

http://blog.yoga-sa.com/tibetan-singing-bowl-meditation-video/

With so much information on the internet to assist with your Spiritual Growth, it can be overwhelming knowing where to begin.

This post is to tell you of a man named Anmol Mehta, who moderates the Mastery of Meditation, Yoga & Zen website.

Although this website has an extraordinary amount of great content, the search function, or skimming the most popular articles will surely get you reading and learning something of great interest.

I have been subscribed to the Newsletter for many years and always enjoy Anmol’s posts.

Like this one… Opening Third Eye (Ajna) Chakra Meditation Technique for Psychic Powers

In Love and Light, We Explore!
Nigel Coates

Let’s try something more Traditional, because Amazing things can happen on a personal level when practicing meditation in its simplest form.

No guide to walk you through the process… No music to keep you focused. This is how meditation was practiced in the early days. With focus on an object, mantra or breath… or no focus at all.

I do not believe any one form of meditation is superior to another. They are all beautiful in themselves. True, some people have a better experience with a specific method – but that choice is personal – not universal.  I do encourage the exploration of all forms, even if you have a favorite.

Imagine a child in a 40 flavors Ice-Cream shop trying to convince everyone that chocolate is better than the rest. When asked how many of the 40 flavors he had tried, he answered ‘one’.

The Universal Mantra Meditation

This meditation comes from an ancient Indian text called the Malini Vijaya Tantra, which dates back about 5000 years. It is a very easy meditation, yet very powerful in its capacity to quiet your mind and connect you with your Essence or Inner Spirit.

This meditation uses a mantra as your object of focus. A mantra is a word or phrase that has the power to catalyze a shift into deeper, more peaceful states of awareness. The mantra most use for this meditation is: Aum. Aum does not have a literal translation. Rather, it is the essential vibration of the universe. If you were to tune into the actual sound of the cosmos, the perpetual sound of Aummm is what you would hear.

Although this mantra is sometimes chanted aloud, in this meditation, you will be repeating the mantra mentally… silently. Before we get to the actual steps, there are a few important points to be aware of.

• One of the keys to this meditation is repeating the mantra gently or faintly in your mind.

• The power of this technique comes from letting go and allowing your attention to dive into the deeper realms of awareness. Therefore, even though you will be focusing on the mantra, staying focused on the mantra is not the aim of this meditation. Trying too hard to stay focused would keep your attention from descending into the deeper realms. Instead, you will be repeating the mantra with “minimal effort”, and giving your mind the space to wander a bit.

• Resist the temptation to make something happen, and allow the mantra to do the work. This meditation easily produces a shift into deeper, more peaceful states of awareness. (The degree of this will vary from session to session.) It increases the flow of energy to the brain and clears away a good deal of physical and emotional toxins.

Because of this detoxification, it is best to keep this meditation to 10 or 15 minutes a day when first beginning. After a month or so, it can be increased to 20 minutes, but that should be the maximum for anyone who does not have quite a few years of meditation experience. Also, it is advisable to drink a lot of pure water.

Finally, mantra meditation accelerates spiritual growth as you achieve a state of relaxation and self-awareness.

The Practice

1. Sit comfortably, with your eyes closed and your spine reasonably straight.

2. Begin repeating the mantra gently in your mind.

3. Repeat the mantra at whatever tempo feels most natural. There is no need to synchronize the mantra with your breathing, but if this occurs naturally, it’s ok.

4. Allow the mantra to arise more faintly in your mind… repeating it with minimal effort.

5. Continue repeating the mantra faintly, and allow for whatever happens.

6. If at any time, you feel that you are slipping into a sleep-like or dream-like state, allow it to happen.

7. If and when you notice that your attention has drifted completely off the mantra, gently begin repeating it again, and continue with minimal effort.

8. After 10 or 15 minutes, stop repeating the mantra, and come out of your meditation slowly.

Some people struggle without the music or guide to stay focused on the practice. It is important to be kind to yourself when you slip. Gently steer your focus back on track. If you curse yourself or your ability there will be no benefits for you to receive.

Some days will be better than others… and it takes practice.

Please share your experience with this meditation below,

In Love and Light, Nigel.

Just the other day I got in a Fight!

I was out near my Worm Farm, transplanting a few cherry tomato seedlings when it all began.
 
I had a bag of potting mix between my knees, both hands full of dirt and BAMMO!

One of the neighbor’s bees lined me up and took me down with one hit (but not before I squealed hysterically, ran in circles and threw dirt everywhere).
 
I was stung on the top of my cheek, just below my right eye. I was home alone and a little worried about the effects, as I had been stung on my foot a few years previous and my whole leg swelled. Luckily, this time, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation saved a disaster. My face did swell a little – but only enough to cut some vision and make me look a little chubby. But the worst thing of all – It hurt when I smiled.
 
I didn’t actually go to a doctor but I can imagine their advice. “If it hurts when you smile – don’t do it.” And that does seem simple, and logical I guess. Just don’t smile.
 
But let me tell you… Naturally, I’m a visually expressive person. I like to show my emotions physically. It’s generally very easy to tell what I’m thinking just by looking at my face.
 
So, imagine not being able to smile for 3 days! (Especially with the ‘Trigger / Response’ of Smile = Pain) It REALLY took it out of me!
 
By the third day I was flat… low in energy, enthusiasm, compassion, appetite and zest. I felt like Mr. Bland from Blandsville having an averagely bland day. My heart beat without passion!
 
Now apart from the fight with the bee – Life was wonderful. I had no other reason to complain, so I knew the connection was direct.
 
Being deprived of the ability to smile affected my mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health – and that got me thinking. 

The Smile Meditation

Smile!

Usually when I meditate I feel stress and muscle tension melt off me like ice in the sun. I try to ‘let go’ of everything and separate my awareness from its physical attachments. But as soon as the swelling subsided and associated pain gone, I lay to meditate and consciously held a gentle smile. (Not a big forced cheesy grin… Just an inner feeling of warmth and good humor.)
 
And quickly, thoughts of good things and fun times started to drift by. And they kept coming. Good times, funny situations, things people had said that made me laugh…
 
And although the rest of me was relaxed, my face slowly shaped into a full teeth grin – but it was a natural smile. I gave it no muscular assistance at all. I couldn’t help but smile!
 
The energy of my smile became a power source of its own. It drew from the links of all my smiles past – and this energy stared to radiate through my body. I was soon glowing, and rushing with the endorphins that are released when you laugh. My physical body still held no tension, so this smiley energy was free to zoom around my body and blast all blockages and pockets of dense negativity. I didn’t care what the bad bits were – but I could feel them wrapped in the energy of a warm loving smile and transformed into light!
 
And when my meditation was finished I felt great. Rosy cheeks – bright eyes – a spring in my step and a thankful smile (For I felt thankful to the little bee, who gave me the opportunity for this new experience).

In Practice

You can have fun with this one. Ensure you won’t be disturbed – so the universe knows ‘this time is yours’. I suggest laying or sitting to start with, (but if it works for you a few times, try it walking, gardening or washing the dishes).
 
Have some ambient relaxation music in the background. This meditation will work best without a guide, as the journey will be unique to you.
 
Take a few full breaths and then find a natural and relaxed rhythm, slow and deep. Scan your body from tip to toe to let go of muscle tension and physical stress.
 
Say something similar to, “I use this time to appreciate the joy in my life. I give thanks for the people, places and things that make me smile.” Then, if you haven’t already, gently turn up the corners of your mouth.
 
It should feel natural. If it feels forced, back off and wait for thoughts and joyful feelings to energize it before you continue.
 
Don’t ‘hunt down’ things you ‘think’ should make you happy, or that you ’should’ be thankful for. Relax, let go, sink into the intent you set, and see what comes. Let Go of needing to have control.
 
Think of your thoughts as clouds. In a massive sky full of clouds, gently let your gaze focus on one. Look at it, feel it, draw from it, but don’t connect so much that the other clouds in the sky disappear. Don’t crave attachment to it. Just know that as one cloud passes, another will arrive, and another.
 
The arrival and departure of your thoughts in meditation should be effortless. No expectation – or hanging on.
 
And as these clouds continue to pass by, connect to the Energy of your Smile. Feel it. Experience it. Be it. And then see what happens
 
I suggest that 10 to 20 minutes would be enough for this one… Unless you get really good – then All Day – Every Day! Ha-ha.

The Sign Off

Cheese!

At that is my Smile Meditation. Scientists have proven it’s chemically beneficial and I’m sure you can draw from experience of your own. Smiling is good for you. Why not try to connect with your smile while in a meditative state?
 
I hope you enjoy the practice and receive the many Smiley benefits.
 
Share your experience with other like minded souls below.

Did the Smile Meditation Brighten Your Day?
 
In Love and Light, We Explore! Nigel Coates