|
Lethargy
often afflict the beginner in Meditation |
|
| Laziness,
drowsiness and sleep are universal obstacles on the spiritual path,
and sleep is the most powerful. Like food, it has become an overindulged
habit of long standing for most people. However, the amount of sleep
necessary can be cut down drastically through regular practice of
meditation. Sleep is a psychological need and may be reduced gradually
and slowly. The brain needs rest for only a short time every day;
if denied, there is no doubt that one feels tired and is incapable
of either working or meditating. Energy is no longer wasted on emotions
and useless desires. The mind spends more time in a relaxed state,
so it does not require great amounts of rest. |
| Often
during meditation one will begin to wonder if the mind has slipped
into its old habit of sleeping or if meditation is actually occurring.
This can be easily determined for during meditation the body and
eyelids are heavy and the mind is dull. If sleep does become a problem
during meditation, |
|
splashing
cold water on the face, doing breathing exercises, or standing on
the head for five minutes will return the mind to an alert sate. |
Lethargy
and depression often afflict the beginner in meditation. Lethargy
frequently sets in when the student’s life is too unbalanced.
Only a very small minority is fit for full time meditation; others
must lead a controlled and balanced life. Young students, full of
enthusiasm and ides of independence and romanticism, need to regular
their energies. |
| COMPLICATED WORLD |
The term
undesirable company includes more than just people; it’s anything
that gives rise to negative thoughts or vibrations. One should even
consider curtailing the reading of newspapers, for their intent
as well as effect is to tantalize the mind with waves of unrest
and sensationalism. |
The
world is full of avarice, hypocrisy, flattery, untruth, double-dealing
and selfishness, and those who profess to be friends are often one’s
greatest enemies. Beware of self-proclaimed friends who come for
money and other comforts when circumstances are affluent, then disappear
when the tide has turned. Most would like to feel that their relationships
are based on selfless love, but in fact many are based on the fear
of being alone and the desire for diversion. Associate only with
those whose own aspirations for perfection are uplifting and encouraging. |
