Over the years I’ve faded in and out of regular meditation, but for no good reason. It was helpful, but I just didn’t stick with it. However, I feel that the benefits are worth it so I’m digging back in, thanks to a bit of encouragement from “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry“. From the book, where they quoted Tim Keller:
“Persons who meditate become people of substance who have thought things out and have deep convictions, who can explain difficult concepts in simple language, and who have good reasons behind everything they do. Many people do not meditate. They skim everything, picking and choosing on impulse, having no thought-out reasons for their behavior. Following whims, they live shallow lives.”
The first part of that quote really spoke to me, as I desire to be able to explain difficult concepts in simple language and always be able to defend my viewpoint. I’ve never thought of meditation as being beneficial for those, but it makes sense. As I’ve said for years, the main purpose of this blog is to gain more clarity for myself, and meditation will help take that further.
I’m using the Headspace app to help with this, since it’s intended for people just starting to meditate (which I essentially am, repeatedly).
Do you meditate regularly? If so, how do you do it (app, video, pure silence, etc)? Do you find it to be beneficial?
I’m not quite sure “meditate” is the right word for what I do, but my routine is in the ballpark. Each morning I listen to some scripture texts on audio. I do some bible reading and note taking. I do a lot of prayer, and I somewhat journal through it. I have a number of items that I review regularly. I have my “on this day” journal, which is also my gratitude journal, so I review all the great things that have happened on this day in history across all my years, and often even historical events before my time. As I take my dog for a walk, I listen to an audiobook. Regularly, but not necessarily daily, I read something else with some notes, or review something (mostly the notes) of what I’ve take in the past. So … did I meditate? Perhaps.
Oh, I also have a little (very little, a few chapters) of scripture that I’ve mostly memorized, and sometimes I review these, from memory. That’s probably the closest thing to real meditation I do.
That’s a fantastic routine! I was just thinking about finding a way to add some kind of “on this day” review to my mornings, and you’ve got me more inspired to figure it out.
I’m also not sure if that would be considered “meditation”, but it’s undoubtedly very valuable for you.