What is Meditation? A Guide to the Practice

Meditation is a practice of focused attention that cultivates present-moment awareness, calm and inner connection through simple techniques like breathing and mindfulness.

Your exploration into meditation begins with awareness of your breath, your physical being and surroundings. To be in the present moment—in the here and now—in an accepting and open-minded manner. You learn how to focus your attention and observe the flow of thoughts without judgement. You emerge from the practice more calm and connected to yourself.

What if you had a beautiful small plot of land where you decide to have a kitchen garden where you'll grow tomatoes, herbs, and some flowers. You take good care of the soil by nourishing it with water, organic manure, compost; you regularly take out the weeds to allow the soil to breathe. Beautiful bright red tomatoes and colourful flowers soon start decorating your little nursery. This growth happened not only because you willed it, but because you created the favourably requisite environment for it.

What if you were to look after your consciousness like you tended to your garden? Imagine what that would do to your body, your mind, your emotions and your spirit. Meditation is in effect the creation of that ideal atmosphere for you to cultivate a quiet space in your mind.

Broadly speaking, meditation is any activity where a person focuses their attention on a repetitive mental action.

• Is it an exercise? Yes
• Is it a practice? Yes
• Is it a training? Yes, of the mind and much more

Eastern and Western Understanding of Meditation

Meditation as known in the West emphasises the act of doing the discipline. Eastern philosophies, where it took root more than 3,500 years ago, regard it as a state of being—not something you are 'doing' but something you are 'becoming'. You become meditative.

Through the Eastern understanding, meditation is:

• the mind void of turmoil
• the mind in the 'now'—the present moment
• the mind without expectations or doubt
• the mind at ease with itself

Whatever the nuances, meditation is simultaneously ancient and modern, grounded in tradition yet global in reach. The right approach can help you find peace of mind and cultivate positive inner resources.

Common Meditation Techniques

By applying several techniques, you can work towards a peaceful state of consciousness. It typically involves quieting mental activity and observing your thoughts without resistance. As you become a witness to your thoughts, your mind gently transitions into a meditative state. Your body relaxes, and your heartbeat normalises. You allow thoughts to arise and disappear naturally, without judgment or suppression.

In a commonly used technique, you focus your attention on a single object or group of words for an extended period. You do not force your mind, but gently return attention to your chosen focus whenever it wanders.

Another accessible method uses rhythmic breathing. You tenderly direct your attention to your breathing, noticing how your lungs expand and contract with each breath, and the sensation in your nostrils. This naturally lengthens and deepens your breathing pattern.

As you settle into a comfortable posture, your mind may drift from your focus—distracted by sounds, bodily sensations, or memories. In a non-judgmental way, you acknowledge this and gently guide your attention back to your intended focus.

The ideal position for meditation is a comfortable seated posture. Those with physical limitations may prefer lying down or standing. The most important thing is feeling grounded and connected to the earth beneath you.

You may encounter different meditation styles—Vedic, Transcendental, Zen, Vipassana, or Mindful Meditation. These vary in structure and approach, but all aim to guide you towards mental clarity and emotional stability.

Audio recording credit: Rebecca Kaye

The Rest and Recovery Meditation Offers

As your mind quiets and external distractions fade, you make a connection with your inner consciousness. You feel light, unburdened by worry, and present within yourself. When you emerge from this state, you carry a profound sense of rest—unlike deep sleep, where the mind remains active with dreams and thoughts, meditation offers your body, mind, emotions and spirit genuine calm and restoration.

With each meditation session, your inner awareness deepens. Your present moment gradually gains prominence over worries about the future and regrets about the past. Over time, you may notice a lighter, more cheerful disposition and a healthier outlook on life.

Meditation is also a journey in self-discovery. As your mind becomes less cluttered, your core self surfaces—much like flower buds in a garden. Through regular practice, you may find yourself more present, less hindered by fear, and more aligned with your authentic self.

With consistent practice, meditation may support your wellbeing through what many practitioners observe: a sense of calm, reduced mental chatter, greater self-awareness, and an increased capacity for self-compassion.

Begin Your Meditation Exploration

If you're curious about starting a meditation practice, or would like to learn from experienced teachers, Sissoo connects you with vetted complementary medicine practitioners who specialise in meditation and mindfulness. Discover teachers and resources that resonate with you through our platform.