Transcript
Today, we will discuss how meditation is generally regarded as safe for most individuals and offers various mental and physical health benefits. However, it’s essential to approach it with mindfulness and keep the following points in mind:
Meditation is a safe means of developing greater mindfulness and awareness, both of our internal and external experience. It isn’t always comfortable, however. For some people, the process of turning attention inward can be quite painful, especially if the body holds difficult, unresolved trauma.
Anytime you’re meditating, with or without a guide, try to balance two types of attention. Place part of your attention on your intention, such as watching the breath. Use another part of your attention to tend to your meditation experience. If you notice resistance, reactivity, discomfort, or unease, address it in the most compassionate, caring way you can.
Sometimes, this means staying with the experience and continuing to observe with a loving, caring kindness. Other times, this means gently navigating away from the discomfort or even taking a break from the practice entirely. You always have agency over your own practice.
Meditation can help support mental and physical health, but it may not be a sufficient, stand-alone solution. If you’re using meditation as treatment for any physical, mental or emotional challenge, discuss your practice with a trauma-informed specialist, a trained medical professional or trusted counselor.
