Does Meditation Actually Work?

Perhaps you have been trying to meditate for a while now, and can't get it to work for you. You may be asking, "Does meditation actually work?"

I just finished a post for my WA website on the purpose of meditation, and came across this list of some of the reasons why your meditation might not be working for you. I decided the list might be of value to some of our members.

Don't Be Too Focused On The Outcome

First of all, you might be too expectant of the outcome. You might be focused on what you expect to gain. When you are too focused on the outcome, it shows that your motivation is only based on what you can get from it.

It is often hard to detach from expectations. You apparently find it challenging to control your own desires. However, remember that the real purpose of meditation is to learn how to control our thoughts as well.

You May Be Too Attached To Other Things

Being attached to material possessions is a sign of lack of control. If you find it hard to weed out your closet or if you have trouble spending time away from your computer game, you will find it even harder to observe in the moment what is going on around you.

When you become hyper-focused on something, your surroundings tend to disappear. This is the opposite of meditation, which requires you to become more mindful of everything that comes and goes around you.

You Are Unable To Be Still

When you can't be still, it is actually your thoughts that distract you. It is time to do some "mind cleaning." Get rid of the garbage thoughts in your mind that are distracting you.

You See It As A Means Of Escape

Meditation is not a way to escape your problems. Though the problem may disappear after a session, there is no guarantee that it will not arise again. By using meditation as a way of escape, you make yourself dependent on the act of meditation.

Here's How To Succeed With Meditation

1. Make a commitment, then stay disciplined. Set up a schedule of meditation practice and be sure you follow the schedule. Be present at your session.

2. Don't expect anything. Just know the meditation is good for you and try to forget all the small details. Don't measure your progress meticulously.

3. Be open to possibilities. If it isn't working, don't give up too soon. Even if you don't get the results you want, continue to move forward and keep trying.

4. Live in the present. Let go of the past; don't worry about the future. Instead, pay attention to the current happenings in your life.

5. Be resourceful. You can use meditation in less traditional ways. Use it when taking a walk, or journaling, or even when using a coloring book. Try to find something you enjoy.

The purpose of meditation has always been to aid spiritual health. It is not passive, but gives us a chance to actually improve our lives.

We need to see that we can live in peace and love if we learn how to control thoughts and emotions. Even in times of pain and suffering, meditation is a way to handle these challenges better.

For peace of mind and a peaceful life, embrace meditation.