Understanding the Deep Philosophy of Meditation Spiritual Yoga and Mental Wellness

In the bustling streets filled with crowds and noise, we often find ourselves puzzled and lonely. Confused and depressed, we seek ways to let go of these sad feelings but fail at it. Year by year, we are seeing a surge in the mental health crisis.

As per a report, mental disorders are the leading cause of disability, causing 1 in 6 children to live with a disability. The ever-increasing social and economic inequalities, public health emergencies, war, and climate crisis are among the global structural threats to mental health.

To help achieve mental wellness, meditation and yoga have come to the rescue. Both of these practices delve deep into the realms of mind, body, and spirit, which helps to offer inner peace, clarity, and balance.

As per the survey of 52 women with a mean age of 33.5 ± 6.5, depression and anxiety decreased significantly after 12 sessions of regular yoga practice. This proves that yoga has the power to considerably improve mental health.

Let us understand the deep philosophy of spiritual yoga and meditation

The word ‘Yoga’ originates from the Sanskrit word 'yuj',’ which translates to ‘unite or combine’. Yoga is based on the idea that everything in the universe is interconnected. It aims to unite the body, mind, and spirit through various postures, exercises, and more.

Yoga-based philosophical counseling has its roots in 2700 BC. It has been mentioned in the traditional Vedas and Upanishads. (Historic Indian textbooks). According to some researchers, yoga originated 10,000 years ago.

Great books of history such as Yoga Vashitha, Bhagavad Geeta, and Patanjali Yoga Sutras are marked as the primary philosophical books of yoga.

Yoga is founded on certain principles that enable individuals to achieve its maximum benefits.

1. Unity
   Yoga is based on the concept of unity. We are all connected to the universe and each other. This principle helps to develop the feeling of interconnectedness with each other. This feeling helps us to see people with more compassion and empathy.

2. Self-discipline
   Yoga is the practice of self-discipline. One must keep one’s thoughts and emotions under discipline. It helps to increase focus and makes our minds calm.

3. Non-attachment
   Yoga is the art of letting go. Letting go of the attachments of material possessions. It emphasizes detaching from external influences that control us and focusing on our mental wellness and self-awareness.

4. Self-awareness
   Yoga necessitates the need for self-awareness. Being aware of the feelings that we experience and not neglecting them. This helps us understand what we truly feel and what we want to let go of.

5. Positive mindset
   The benefits of yoga are maximized when you see life through rose-colored glasses. It helps you develop gratefulness. A positive approach makes your healing process a bit easier.

It is derived from the Latin term 'meditatum’ which means ‘to ponder’. The idea of spirit-guided meditation is centered on mindfulness, presence, and inner stillness. At its core, meditation is the practice of calming your mind, observing without attachment, and living in the present.

The first written records of meditation come from the Hindu Vedas around 1500 BCE. Fire gazing focuses on the mind that existed long before written words. Since the Desert Fathers and Mothers in Egypt founded the early church, meditation has been a practice of Christians.

Some of the widely accepted principles of meditation are:

1. Be relaxed
   Sit in a comfortable posture with the back, neck, and head in a straight line. Be relaxed in your mind as well. Stay calm and let all the unnecessary thoughts pass.

2. Be present
   Try to be present in the moment. Try to focus on your breathing, sound, or mantra. Forget the past and ignore the future. Just be there for a few moments, and you will feel the change.

3. Pure thoughts
   Allow your conscious self to feel the vibrations of focused breathing, sound, or mantra. This constant state of focus leads to pure thought. These pure thoughts result in what we know as meditation.

4. Enjoy the process
   Do not overcomplicate the process. Simply trust your practice and feel your oneness with the universe. Don't focus on the results; this is the ultimate way to achieve them.

Integrating Yoga and Meditation for Mental Wellness

As per a report, yoga and mindfulness act as add-on therapies for major mental health disorders.

Yoga fosters physical well-being, emotional balance, and spiritual growth, while meditation fosters inner calmness, stillness, and clarity. Incorporating the combination into your life can lead to a profound transformation, helping you become your best self. Meditation, nature, and yoga are modern approaches to healthy living where we consciously combat the stress of the 21st century and focus on our mental wellness.

Whether through the postures of yoga or the stillness of meditation, these practices contribute to a life of greater harmony, well-being, and fulfillment. Both philosophies help you rediscover your best selves. You can start by trying out what suits you best and gradually incorporating other practices into your routine.

These philosophies have the power to transform your life for the better. In today's world of developing technology, it's easier than ever to access professionals who can guide you through yoga and meditation.