Meditation - The Art of Simply Being
Apr 21, 2025
In a world that moves at an unrelenting pace, meditation offers a sacred pause—a moment to return to ourselves, to breathe, and to be. It is both an ancient practice and a timeless state of presence, guiding us beyond restless thoughts into deep stillness.
Rooted in yogic tradition and supported by modern science, meditation is a bridge between mind, body, and spirit. It reminds us that we do not need to strive to become something else—everything we seek is already within us. Through the simple act of sitting, breathing, and observing, we cultivate clarity, peace, and a profound sense of well-being.
What Is Meditation?
At its heart, meditation is awareness. It is not about controlling the mind or eliminating thoughts but observing them with gentle curiosity. Like the sky remains vast and unchanged as clouds pass through, we, too, can witness our thoughts without getting caught in them.
Many traditions teach meditation in different forms—some focus on the breath, others use mantras or visualization, and some cultivate loving-kindness. But the essence is always the same: returning to the present moment.
The Power of Sitting Still
The simple act of sitting in meditation carries profound depth. It is a practice of arriving fully in the now, of embracing stillness amidst the ever-moving current of life.
In yogic philosophy, meditation (Dhyana) is the seventh limb of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, leading to deep absorption and self-realization. Through meditation, we move beyond the restless fluctuations of the mind (chitta vritti) into a state of pure being.
This practice is not about escaping life but fully engaging with it—from a place of inner steadiness. As the Bhagavad Gita teaches:
“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.”
The Health Benefits of Meditation
Ancient yogis knew what modern science now confirms—meditation has powerful benefits for both mind and body.
- Calms the Nervous System
Meditation activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress hormones and bringing the body into a state of deep relaxation. It slows the heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and enhances overall well-being.
- Sharpens Mental Clarity
By training the mind to focus, meditation improves concentration, cognitive function, and memory. It helps us move through life with greater awareness and purpose.
- Cultivates Emotional Balance
Meditation teaches us to observe emotions without being controlled by them. It fosters self-awareness, helping us respond with wisdom rather than react impulsively.
- Strengthens the Immune System
Studies show that meditation reduces inflammation and boosts immunity. A calm mind creates a healthier body.
- Eases Chronic Pain
By altering our perception of discomfort, meditation can reduce pain sensitivity. Instead of resisting pain, we learn to observe it with detachment, reducing suffering.
- Deepens Self-Connection
Beyond the physical benefits, meditation is a journey inward—an exploration of our true nature. It dissolves the illusion of separation, revealing the interconnectedness of all life.
A Simple Guided Meditation
If you are new to meditation, here is a simple practice to begin:
- Find a Comfortable Seat – Sit in a quiet space, either cross-legged on the floor or on a chair with your feet planted. Keep your spine tall but relaxed.
- Close Your Eyes & Breathe – Take a deep breath in through your nose… and exhale slowly. Let your breath flow naturally.
- Observe Your Thoughts – Imagine your mind as the sky and your thoughts as passing clouds. Watch them without judgment, letting them drift by.
- Return to the Present – If your mind wanders (and it will), gently bring your focus back to your breath. Each inhale and exhale is an anchor to the present.
- Rest in Stillness – Allow yourself to simply be. No striving, no forcing—just being with what is.
Start with just five minutes a day, gradually increasing the time as it feels natural.
Simply Being
In the silence of meditation, we remember: We are not our thoughts. We are not our worries. We are something deeper—something vast and unshaken.
As Rumi beautifully said:
“Be like a tree and let the dead leaves drop.”
Meditation is an invitation to let go, to soften, and to come home to yourself. No matter where you are on your journey, the present moment is always waiting.
All you have to do is sit, breathe, and be.
Much Love
Wenche 
