Azedia

I’ve never described myself as a practitioner of meditation, however, a technique was shared with me some time ago that I’ve found very helpful for daily living. As I’ve passed the technique along to others they’ve told me that they experienced a similar benefit, so I thought I’d share it here.

It begins with a simple understanding that there is no such thing as a right or wrong emotion. An emotion just “is.” Once we understand that we know that it makes no sense to tell a person that they shouldn’t feel a certain way. Again, an emotion just is. It doesn’t have a right or wrong. The experience of emotions and feelings makes it possible for us to navigate our very day.

Despite this, many of us have learned how to suppress our emotions. At work a boss may make us angry and we can’t speak back. At home a loved one’s drinking may be troubling us but we continue to look it the other way. And then there are those heartaches that all of us have experienced but we keep putting the good face forward despite the hurt. It always takes its strain.

Yes, in all the various forms each of us are masters at suppressing our own emotions. The problem is that emotions are just like people. If you try to suppress an emotion it will fight back for its existence, and unfortunately, the inner struggle is something that can wreak havoc on our inner-self. Some of us will find that we are nervous but ‘”do not know the reason why.” And how many times have we heard that depression is anger turned inward? Yep, that’s suppressing your emotions too.

If any of this is true then it pays for us to get our emotions in check. We need to acknowledge our emotion’s right to exist, and the time just before meditation presents us with an excellent opportunity to do this.

Here’s the trick.

Once you’re seated or comfortable in your posture take a brief moment to reflect, relax, and wash the troubles from your mind. Be still and enjoy the moment. Don’t worry about technique. All we’re doing is unwinding here and calming down. We’re getting into our own quiet space and making room for some time that is truly ours.

When you find yourself comfortable and relaxed close your eyes and simply ask, “Okay, Gang, who’s there?” After asking the question let whatever emotion is within you rise to the surface. When it does acknowledge its existence and right to be there. Remember, an emotion doesn’t have a right or wrong. An emotion just is. When you’re comfortable that the emotion has been recognized gently remind it that this is your time now, and ask it for a few moments of peace. You’ll find that the emotion, once recognized, will be more than willing to cooperate. Let the emotion fade back away, and let it know that you’ll be back just as soon as you’ve given some time to yourself.

Repeat the process asking the same question again, “Okay, who’s left?” Continue to let each emotion rise and fall until there are no more left to recognize. At that point the time has come for silence. Meditate briefly or extend this personal time as you continue to watch your thoughts. Oh, and as for formal meditation technique this is very much like riding a bike. Whether you were aware of it or not, you’re already doing it. Just continue to watch and let things rise and fall naturally.

Many people will find their thoughts clear and their emotions in check after only one session. Even deeper levels of peace can be experienced with continued practice, and how far you go is completely your choice. - Enjoy

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