This month we continue the Comprehensive Survey of Buddhist Meditation chapter with the Purpose and Benefits of Meditation.
May you be well, happy, and peaceful.
1.3. Purpose and Benefits of Meditation
Along with the popularity of meditation in modern days, the youth
and the aged alike pursue meditation with different purposes. Some
people might not consider meditation as a religious practice. As it
may not have a religious element, most people, especially in the
West, practice meditation for the reduction of mental stress and the
gain of some relaxation and peace of mind. But nowadays some
people in India where various types of meditation are found engage
in meditation, particularly in Yoga for weight loss.
One may not spell out the benefits of meditation in complete form
for its countless values involving a state of consciousness that
cannot be expressed by words. One of the most remarkable benefits
of meditation is the gain in a deeper level of peace of mind,
relaxation, happiness, and calmness as one frees from worries and
stress. “Studies have shown that meditating regularly can help
relieve symptoms in people who suffer from chronic pain.”
“Meditation can relax the nerves, control or reduce the blood
pressure, make us zestful by stemming the dissipation of energy
through tensions, improve our health, and keep us fit.” In the words
of Sri Chinmoy, “Meditation simplifies our outer life and energizes
our inner life. Meditation gives us a natural and spontaneous life, a
life that becomes so natural and spontaneous that we cannot
breathe without being conscious of our own divinity.” Richard
Pettinger also believes that meditation streamlines our outer life,
energizes our inner life, and is a practical solution to relieve stress
and tension. Moreover, meditation can help us to unlock our creative
potential as a consequence of deep concentration. In brief,
meditation not only brings physical and mental calmness but also
enhances willpower, memory, intuition, inner strength, and peace
of mind leading to spiritual enlightenment. Meditation is to stop the
mind from rushing about in an aimless stream of thoughts and to
still the mind. It might also lead to spiritual enlightenment. This
depends on how much enthusiastic we are, how much energy and
time we devote to it, and on our inner ripeness.
In the next Dhamma Journal, this chapter with continue with “Buddhist
Meditation”
Mahapajapati Monastery 