Debunking Meditation Myths

By Angelica Siador

If you have even the tiniest bit of interest in wellness, you have heard about meditation. Its many benefits are heavily documented and widely known.

To name a few, research has shown that meditation can reduce stress, improve attention and cognitive function, reduce insomnia, and enhance emotional regulation. Meditation has also been known to improve physical health by reducing pain and fatigue in people with chronic pain. With all of these impactful benefits, who wouldn’t want to meditate?

The reality is, despite having a long list of positive effects, many still find meditation to be an inaccessible practice, reserved for monks or those with esoteric knowledge. Some may have meditation practices that end in frustration or disappointment because they cannot get their minds to quiet down and are unable to find their “zen.” Some may be so intimidated by the idea of meditation that they can’t even allow themselves to try it.

While it is true that not everyone will enjoy the experience of meditation, many struggle because of their beliefs in myths associated with this practice.

Myth #1: “You need to be able to stop your thoughts.”

As humans, our minds were built to think – we evaluate our situations, ponder problems and their potential solutions, or simply daydream about our deepest wishes. Meditation works by bringing awareness to our thoughts rather than eliminating them.

Myth #2: “You’re doing it wrong if your mind wanders.”

Just as you are unable to empty your mind of thoughts, your mind will naturally wander during meditation. It is from this wandering that you learn to return to focus, whether it is returning to your breath, your mantra, or the candle’s flame. Wandering is part of the practice.

Myth #3: “Meditation requires a perfect environment.”

Many people have busy homes and are unable to find quiet spaces to meditate and this myth leads them to think that meditation is just not possible for them. The reality is that meditation can be done anywhere, even in noisy environments like bustling parks. The quiet and stillness will come from within, created by the meditation experience. 

Myth #4: “You have to meditate for long periods of time.”

Consistency is key when it comes to benefitting from meditation. Whether you meditate for 10 minutes a day or for one hour a day, as long as you develop a consistent routine, you will feel the effects of your practice. 

Myth #5: “You should feel calm or bliss all of the time.”

You are different each day, so your practice will be different every time. Some days, your practice may be blissful. Other days, you may only experience restlessness or distraction. Meditation builds awareness of your present state, so restlessness is part of the practice.

Outside of these myths, meditation is actually a flexible practice that is ready to meet you where you are. There are different ways to meditate, and discovering which practice resonates with you is part of the journey. You may discover that the compassion from Loving Kindness (Metta) meditation is what you need, or maybe using a candle flame during a Focused Attention meditation is most helpful. Perhaps reciting a Mantra Meditation is the practice for you.

If you are curious about meditation, or are seeking to experience meditating with others, we invite you to connect with your Revolution community on Sunday, May 31 from 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM. During this 90-minute class, one of our beloved teachers, Julie Natalini, will share her knowledge and guide you through different meditation styles to help you experience its effects on your mind and heart.

This class is part of our Yoga Foundations series, which we offer monthly at no extra charge to our members. The drop-in rate is $20. 

You can register for it here: https://momence.com/l/MjhLkQGZ