Basic HTML Version
FireFlyz | 63
Mindfulness and meditation are terms that are used interchangeably
amongst empirical psychologists and a great deal of interest was generated
since the introduction of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
designed by Jon Kabat-Zinn at the University of MassachusettsMedical Center
which uses a combination of mindfulness meditation, body awareness, and
yoga to help people become more mindful (Pickert, 2014, Time Magazine).
The programme was initially developed to assist people with pain and a range
of conditions and life issues that were difficult to treat in a hospital setting,
but has, in recent years become the subject of controlled clinical research.
Mantra Meditation
According to wildmind.org, Mantra meditation predates Buddhism and can
be traced to Vedic traditions. A spiritualistresources.com article concurs that
Mantra meditations most likely originated in India and were first mentioned
in the Vedas, the Hindu scriptures. Mantras can be chants that are articulated
aloud or phrases that are repeated in the mind. Some theorise that they
provide a subject of focus while meditating whilst others are of the opinion
that the mantras exude energy that changes the body’s vibrations to be in
harmony with the universe.
Whatever the motivation is for, or outcomes of, practicing meditation in
any amount, it certainly doesn’t hurt to have a little less noise in our lives,
and a little more mental space!