By Sant Rajinder Singh Ji
Meditation is a simple process where we sit still and concentrate within to experience inner treasures. Two meditation techniques we use in Sawan Kirpal Ruhani Mission/ Science of Spirituality are simple to do and can be practiced by anyone of any age in their homes or wherever they like. It does not require difficult postures or asanas, and can be performed anywhere at any time. One is the Shabd Meditation, or Meditation on the Light and Sound. This provides us an inner connection to a source of happiness, peace, and bliss within us. It is like having an internal retreat that we can visit anytime we want to recharge and refresh. The second is an introductory technique called Jyoti Meditation, which involves sitting quietly, focusing our attention within, and experiencing the peace and calm within us.
The common question I am often asked is, “How can I keep my attention in meditation without being distracted by thoughts?” This is a typical problem that people throughout the world have while trying to meditate.
Why does this happen? Our minds are active and restless and do not like to be still to focus on the wonders within. We have within us a gateway to peace, joy, and happiness. However, to access these treasures we need to meditate, by sitting in silence and staying focused within to enjoy them.
Here are three tips to help us meditate:
1) Set priorities.
When we want to study for an exam we set time and focus only on that. Similarly, when we set a time for meditation, we focus only on that for that period. We then allot time throughout the rest of the day for other activities. This helps us preserve our meditation time only for that purpose.
2) Have a special place for meditation.
By getting into the habit of concentrating on meditating when in that spot, we can know to put aside other distractions when we are in other places in our home. When we sit in that place, we naturally will gravitate toward meditating.
3) Be committed to achieving our goals through meditation.
When we have a goal we really want to attain, nothing can stop us from achieving it. Whether we want to win at sports, reach our financial goals, lose weight, or improve our relationships, we spend time working to achieve success. We put in time and effort. It is the same with meditation. People meditate for different reasons, whether for physical, mental, or emotional health and wellness, spiritual growth, or other reasons. When we commit to that goal, then we are more dedicated to spending the time to achieve it. This determination will help us concentrate and focus better when we meditate without being sidetracked by distractions in our mind.
Those who practice meditation on the inner Light and Sound as taught in Science of Spirituality learn techniques to keep their mind from distracting them from thoughts. In this way, their meditation time is fruitful, and they avoid distractions that keep them from attaining success.
