The Breath Is Not For Everyone
Out of context, the title of this blog may seem perplexing. After all, the breath is essential for everyone as it sustains life itself. However, "the breath is not for everyone" is just a fragment of a more profound conversation I had with a dear friend about meditation. I've pondered his words and held them close to my heart for several weeks.
Always with us, the breath serves as a constant companion, a supportive anchor for our wandering minds. Nonetheless, the instruction to "focus on your breath" might be deceptively simple. When we perceive the breath as a mere concept, it becomes just another stimulus that triggers our thoughts. Instead of being present in the moment, we find ourselves preoccupied with the breath, perhaps even judging its correctness. This tendency leads us away from the here and now.
To truly understand the significance of the breath, we must acknowledge the wandering nature of our minds. Then, we bring our awareness to the actual sensation of the breath, whether it's the rise and fall of the belly, the feeling of air on the nostrils, or the complete cycle of breathing. Placing our awareness on the sensation of the breath establishes a connection between the body and mind, grounding us in the present moment.
Despite the distinction between concept and sensation, the breath might not serve as the ideal mind-body connection for everyone, especially in the initial stages of practice. Many students experience heightened anxiety, hyperventilation, or stress when focusing on the breath. While mindfulness meditation involves working with the mind and being aware of what arises, these intense reactions can deter individuals from pursuing a practice that could potentially be the key to transformation.
Every practitioner's journey is distinct and personal. Seeking guidance from a qualified meditation teacher offers a valuable chance to address and overcome the obstacles that arise during practice. With the support of an experienced teacher, one can gain valuable insights, shared experiences, and access to proven practices that can nurture a transformative and fulfilling meditation experience.
