I have long thought the reason Blavatsky did not (publicly) advise people to meditate was demographic: her audience was mainly the ‘leasurely class’. That is: people whose main occupation in life was going to each other’s teas, dressing up, reading, playing music etc. Some of those people used their energies for good – but the majority did not really have all that much to do.
In those circumstances meditation (especially without a proper teacher) is not a good idea. After all – these people were accustomed to being passive.
In our time one of the greatest danger to public health, among the educated at least, seems to be the opposite: stress and overwork. No wonder meditation is hailed as the next best thing for our health.
Not only are people continually busy – when we aren’t, modern machinery makes us stimulate our senses all day long as well. Music, tv, computer games, e-mail and twitter… What natural silence our lives may have had has long since been submerged.
So let’s hear it for taking a break every once in a while. Just sitting still without turning on the radio or some cd. Just sitting back to ponder. Just letting our brain relax for a minute. Whether you call it meditation or simply resting – it is obviously good for you. And it will help you sleep better as well.
Good evening, Katinka.
I agree wholeheartedly with what you’re saying here. Most of us need some downtime to simply be. Most of us spend so much of our time doing, and we forget the value in not-doing.
I’m not saying that we shouldn’t take action to accomplish what we want. After all, that’s one of my personal keys to succeeding.
Still, we need time to relax, shut out the noise, turn off the various stimuli, and just spend a little time with our inner selves.
When I was younger, I set aside time every day to meditate. As I got older, my life became much more busy. The last few years, while I was caring for my Mom, I had little time just to spend with myself. My attention span shortened and I found I could not concentrate on what I wanted to do.
Now, I’m setting aside several times every day when I can turn off everything, and relax. My attention level hasn’t returned so that I can meditate, but I enjoyed a half-hour or so today doing nothing but sitting in a comfortable chair and listening to the rain. It was wonderful.
All the best,
JD
I agree even simple rest is good for us. Too often I get so connected, especially on my computer, I forget to step away, relax, and clear my mind. When I do (step away) and relax or even go for a drive, I come back feeling more rested and creative.
Thanks for the reminder. At this busy time of year my list is long and I forget to take time out for me.