Three Things to do While Meditating

Meditation is a great tool for opening your mind and leaning more about your spiritual side. The best way that I can describe meditation to you is that it is a tool for “joining the river.” I imagine a river that’s flowing with positive thoughts, all of the goodness in the world, uplifting values and morals, inspiring stories…you name it! This is a river that you need to connect to if you’re going to truly find a higher calling. Meditation is one way to find your way to that river.

If that wasn’t deep enough for you, brace yourself. It’s about to get worse.

Meditation is definitely an uplifting experience, but you shouldn’t think of it as always sitting still, saying nothing, eyes closed, breathing. It isn’t that way. You can meditate “to” things as well. You can use mantras, phrases, or ideas to heighten your meditation practice and learn more about yourself. These phrases and mantras open new passageways that allow your practice to deepen and expand.

 I use words a lot during meditation and find them very useful for focusing on my purpose – why I’m sitting, what I’m trying to discover. Since everyone is different, you may not find the same ones useful, so I’m going to list three things to meditate to. Some of them are my own, others I’ve found.

1. Breathe in – “Strength.” Breathe out – “Fear.” This is a personal favorite of mine. When you breathe in, say the word “strength” aloud or in your mind, and imagine yourself filling up with oxygen, the substance that gives us life. Imagine it filling you with strength to overcome obstacles, filling you up with good stuff. Then, exhale all of the fear in your body by saying the word “fear.” Imagine letting go of all of your problems and things that hold you back. By the end of your meditation period, you’ll feel empowered and relaxed.
2. “Aum.” This is the cliché “Om” sound you hear meditators making in popular culture. But it’s actually a pretty good message, as well. It means It Is, To Be, or Will Become. Focus on your goals, what you want to become, what you want to do, and repeat “aum.” Remember where you’re headed and what you can do.
3. “Be the change you wish to see in the world” (Ghandi). This is a great mantra to use when meditating because it allows you some perspective. An old Chinese proverb says, “It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness,” and the two are definitely useful together. Remember that when you see some conflict or problem, it’s better to embody the values you believe will correct it rather than complain about it. This will help you improve your state of being and accept some humility.

You can meditate to virtually any constructive phrase, thought, or idea. The simple act of sitting and listening to your mind’s innermost workings is a blessing, and one you should try sometime!