From: luther@saucer.cc.umr.edu (John Luther)
Subject: Re: meditation
Date: Sat, 4 Dec 1993 15:07:56 GMT

And now I will offer my contribution to confusion.

I learned a rather simple method that serves me quite well.  It is
more the Vipassana (insight) style of meditation.

As others have said before, relax.  Find a comfortable sitting
position.  Sitting helps prevent sleep.  Watch your breath.  Don't
force a rhythm.  Watch it as it is.  If a thought arises, so be it.
If you find yourself following it just return to watching your breath.
That is it.

Working on the depth and manner of breathing is important.  I prefer
to do it separate from meditation, though.

I have also found exercise to be important.  My meditation just isn't
the same if I have not managed to get the blood flowing and the
muscles flexed sometime during the day (I currently sit at night,
before bed).  Another good trick is to exercise, take a hot shower
followed immediately by a COLD shower (go ahead and scream!) prior to
sitting.  Relaxed and energized at the same time.  Yeah, bud!

I find that while great revelations rarely come while meditating as I
have suggested, they seem to come later.  It is like my meditation
opens the door, but the insights have to perculate through (whatever)
before becoming conscious.

Finally, both (all?) methods are valid.  I have read some commentaries
that suggest the concentration form of meditation needs to be
"mastered" before attempting the Vipassana (isight) form for
psychological safety.  This is not a general rule, only important for
some people given their psychological state.

Finally finally, I will acknowledge that Vipassana is more for gaining
insight into the nature of psychic functioning and concentration
meditation is geared for achieving an altered state of consciousness.
The latter may very well be more in line with your goals as a
magickian.

Peace,

905


--
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* John W. Luther             |    W    |   Dreams are sent for the   *
* luther@umr.edu   <-- Best  |  E + F  |    understanding of Life    *
* luther@acm.org             |    A    |         -  Kitaro/Anderson  *
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