What is meditation?

Meditation is the way one attempts to get beyond the “thinking” mind into a deeper state of relaxation or awareness. Meditation often involves turning attention to a single point of reference. It is recognized as a component of many religions, and has been practiced since antiquity. It is also practiced outside religious traditions. Different meditative disciplines encompass a wide range of spiritual practices which may emphasize different goals — from achievement of a higher state of consciousness, to greater focus, creativity or self-awareness, or simply a more relaxed and peaceful frame of mind.

The word meditation originally comes from the Indo-European root, over time it has evolved into the more specific meaning “contemplation.”

Why meditate?

Meditation is a journey and adventure that leads you to self discovery. When in a state of stillness, you can find answers to all those deep mysteries that ellude you in your normal waking state.

Finding the answers to these brings a sense of completion, and is the only way to permanent tranquility. All other forms of tranquility are temporary and fade away over a period of time. J.Krishnamurthy says that meditation brings order and, “that order is the order of the universe. It is irrevocable and does not depend on anything.”

Meditation allows you to find balance and tranquility amid chaos. See our Core Philosophy page for details.

Is meditation a religion?

Sitting in silent contemplation is a universal practice, as are chanting, finding a point of single focus, being mindful of the present moment. Even the Dalai Lama, the foremost  Budhist meditation teacher says that meditation is not a religious activity. It is the direct path that leads to tranquility and happiness. He says, “If you have peace of mind , you can find happiness in the most difficult circumstances.”

How do I start to meditate?

To begin meditating, for someone who has never done it at all, you need is a desire to start meditating and to set aside about 15 minutes at the beginning and end of your day. Bookending your day in this way, helps to bring balance to all that occurs during the interim waking hours. It lays a good foundation for the practice that will transform and become integral to your life.  The important thing is to get into a rhythm and practice, in a few weeks you can add 15 more minutes to each session. The goal is to build up to a minimum of an hour at every session. Initially you may baulk at this and think this an impossible feat, but you will surprise yourself and soon be able to meditate for a total of two hours evey day.  See our Fundamentals page for more details about this.

I can’t sit cross-legged at all, does this mean I can’t meditate?

Not at all. The ultimate goal of meditation is peace, tranquility, and oneness with everything. It is all-emcompassing, not exclusive. This means that there is no room for rigidity or any form of discomfort. Hence anyone and everyone can meditate. You just need to find a position in which you can be comfortably seated. See our Getting Started page for more details about this.

Where can I learn techniques?

The basic technique for becoming still is breath meditation. For instructions how to breathe, see the Getting Started page.

You will also use a mantra to achieve deep stillness. A mantra is string of syllables, imbued with the power to calm you, or balance your system or other specific attributes. If you choose to meditate using The Light and Sound Path, you will be given a personal mantra at the start of your journey. For more information about our weekly meetings, write to info@lightandsoundpath.org

Will I need to change my life style?

You do not need to stop living, or retreat from your life. However, you will need to practice vegetarianism, and abstain from drinking alcohol, or using recreational drugs. Our Getting Started page explains why this is recommended.

What is special about The Light and Sound Path?

The Light and Sound Path is a journey that allows anyone who meditates the opportunity to achieve the highest level of consciousness. No strings attached.  Our Core Philosophy page contains more details about The Light and Sound Path. See our Mission Statement.