Meditation is a state of awakened awareness.
When all modifications, all fluctuations of the mind are
gone – now that is, the state of meditation. Having thus transcended the mind,
we are one with our real Self.
Mind functions at different levels and thoughts are
propelled by mind due to habitual conditioning. We expect certain responses
from people, situations and when they do not happen as desired, the mind gets
disturbed. The agitations of the mind result in great turmoil and this turmoil,
this unrest generates a myriad of thoughts. We pay great deal of attention to
all sorts of self-centered activities, like the kind of clothes we wear, the
fashion we follow, the car we drive, the membership of particular clubs, and so
on. But what we fail to pay any attention to is something very important: How
does our mind function?
How can just a thought bring upon pain, anguish,
jealousy or joy? We ensure that our house is clean but we are least bothered
about our cluttered mind. It is futile to clean the outside when your inside is
soiled by numerous negativities. Thus, there is a dire need to connect to your
inner Self, which is possible only through meditation.
Anandamurti GurumaaExplanation
Meditation as a state of awakened awareness is an insightful
perspective that highlights the essence of mindfulness and presence. This state
involves being fully aware of the present moment with a heightened sense of
clarity and focus. It transcends mere relaxation or stress relief, aiming
instead for a deeper connection with one's inner self and the surrounding
environment.
Key Aspects of Meditation as Awakened Awareness:
- Mindfulness: Being fully present in the moment, acknowledging thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment.
- Concentration: Focusing the mind on a single point of reference, such as the breath, a mantra, or an object, to cultivate deeper awareness.
- Clarity: Observing the mind's activities with clear, unbiased attention, leading to greater self-understanding and insight.
- Equanimity: Maintaining mental calmness and composure regardless of external circumstances or internal states.
- Transcendence: Experiencing a state beyond ordinary waking consciousness, often described as a sense of unity with all things or a connection to a higher reality.
Practices to Achieve Awakened Awareness:
- Breath Awareness: Focusing on the breath to anchor the mind and cultivate present-moment awareness.
- Body Scan: Systematically bringing attention to different parts of the body to develop a deep sense of physical presence.
- Loving-Kindness Meditation: Generating feelings of compassion and love towards oneself and others to enhance emotional awareness.
- Walking Meditation: Bringing mindful attention to the act of walking, noticing each movement and sensation.
- Insight Meditation (Vipassana): Observing thoughts and sensations to gain insight into the nature of the mind and reality.
Benefits of Awakened Awareness:
- Reduced Stress: Enhanced ability to remain calm and composed under stress.
- Improved Focus: Greater concentration and mental clarity.
- Emotional Balance: Better regulation of emotions and increased resilience.
- Self-Awareness: Deeper understanding of oneself and one's patterns of thought and behavior.
- Enhanced Well-being: Overall increase in mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
By embracing meditation as a state of awakened awareness,
practitioners can cultivate a more profound and sustained experience of
mindfulness, leading to transformative personal growth and a deeper connection
to the world around them.