We often find, at the end of a long stress filled day, that the mind goes into hyper-drive and continues to hash and re hash the minutiae of the moment. How often do we wish we could turn off the information overload? The ancient Asian sages , 2,500 years ago discovered a secret - Meditation.
They turned a seemingly passive, non-activity into an “activity”. The idea of having nothing to do ain’t new. It’s been around a long time in the form of yoga , tai’chi, mantra meditation and silent mindful sitting, standing and walking meditation…Meditative techniques work to either empty the mind or fill it with a focus- such as chanting a mantra or, via repetitive movements. The focus is either inner or outer directed.
Yoga experts through inner focus , can maintain alpha activity despite external loud noise and white light . The Taoists used the flow of the body,breath or “Chi” to restore energy and balance . Expert yogis and meditators develop strong mental focus and control and have been shown to influence otherwise involuntary processes such as heart rate, pulse and body temperature .
Zen Buddhist meditation restores one’s attention to the present moment. The Buddhist sutras describe paying attention to each moment without judgement or preconceived ideas. Using Zen methods, a client could become more realistically attuned. It might also prove useful for clients engaged in obsessive thinking or dealing with ingrained, habitual reactions.
Neuroscience has proved now that mind over matter can work. Ending the loops of chatter helps increase dopamine levels and has a significant effect on the parasympathetic systems resulting in lowering stress levels, increasing alertness and relaxation .
Incorporating meditation periods into treatment is helpful for both client and therapist. It’s a win- win ,double edged reward , like frequent flyer miles. Any therapists who recommend meditation ,should of course, try out meditation methods first . There are plenty of CD’s, books, DVD’s and classes in meditation.
Meditation can help clients who overreact, are obsessive or inattentive. Different kinds of meditation work for different problems eg. yoga is recommended for clients who are inattentive or overreact as the focus is inward and calming .
So, glass empty or full – the chatter is simultaneously meaningful and meaningless ….
