There are many myths about meditation that circulate in the general population. Some people believe that meditation is a religious practice, while others think that it is only for people who are already spiritual says Jonah Engler . In addition, there are misconceptions about what meditation is and what it can do.
This article will debunk some of the most common myths about meditation.
Myth 1: Meditation is a Religious Practice
One of the most common myths about meditation is that it is a religious practice. This is not true – meditation can be practiced by anyone, regardless of their religious beliefs. In fact, meditation is an excellent way to get in touch with your spirituality if you are not religious.
Myth 2: You Need to Be Spiritual to Meditate
Another common myth about meditation is that you need to be spiritual in order to practice it. This is not true either. Anyone can learn how to meditate, regardless of their spiritual beliefs or lack thereof.
Myth 3: Meditation is Just for People Who Are Stressed Out
While it is true that meditation can be helpful for people who are stressed out, it is not limited to this population. In fact, meditation can be beneficial for people of all ages and backgrounds. It can help you relax and de-stress, but it can also help you focus and improve your concentration.
Myth 4: You Have to Sit in a Lotus Position to Meditate
This is another popular myth about meditation – which you have to sit in a lotus position in order to meditate. While it is true that some people find this position comfortable, it is not necessary. You can sit in any position that is comfortable for you – just make sure that you are sitting up straight.
Myth 5: You Cannot Meditate If You Are Thinking About Other Things
Another common myth about meditation is that you cannot do it if you are thinking about other things. This is not true – in fact, one of the goals of meditation is to learn how to focus on your thoughts and let them go. If you find yourself thinking about other things, simply acknowledge the thought and let it go.
Myth 6: Meditation is Just for People Who Want to Quit Their Minds
While it is true that meditation can help you quiet your mind, it is not the only goal of this practice. In fact, meditation can be used to focus on your thoughts and examine them more closely.
Myth 7: You Cannot Meditate If You Are Struggling with Mental Illness
Some people believe that you cannot meditate if you are struggling with a mental illness. This is not true – in fact, meditation can be an excellent way to manage your mental health says Jonah Engler. If you are struggling with a mental illness, talk to your doctor about how meditation might be able to help you.
Myth 8: Meditation is Boring
This is another common myth about meditation – that it is boring. In reality, there are many different types of meditation and you can choose the one that is right for you. If you are bored with the type of meditation that you are practicing, try a different one.
Myth 9: You Have to Spend Hours Meditating Each Day
While it is true that you can improve your mental health and well-being by meditating for hours each day, this is not necessary. In fact, even five or ten minutes of meditation each day can be beneficial.
Myth 10: You Cannot Meditate If You Are New to It
Finally, some people believe that you cannot meditate if you are new to it. This is not true – in fact, beginners are often advised to start with shorter meditation sessions. As you continue to practice, you can gradually increase the length of your sessions.
Conclusion:
Meditation is a great way to improve your mental health and well-being. In fact, even a few minutes of meditation each day can be beneficial explains Jonah Engler. If you are new to meditation, start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the length of your practice. There are many different types of meditation, so find the one that is right for you. If you find yourself bored with the type of meditation that you are practicing, try a different one. Meditation can be a great way to focus on your thoughts and let them go. If you are struggling with a mental illness, talk to your doctor about how meditation might be able to help you.