subject: Self Help Loneliness [print this page] Loneliness is a state of mind brought about by the real or perceived dissatisfaction with one's relationships. In both cases - real or perceived - meditation and self-reflection can be highly beneficial to restore one's mental health.
Meditation Loneliness Practices
In order to overcome loneliness with meditation, one must first learn how to meditate. Know that there is no magic to meditation and no one right way (and certainly no wrong way). The formal definition of meditate is: "To reflect on; contemplate." Meditation is a way to focus one's thoughts and forget the outside world. This may seem counter to the goal of combatting loneliness, but loneliness is most often about negative thoughts and attitudes, and that is what meditation can overcome.
Five Steps to Meditation
Step One: Rhythmic Breathing. Purposeful breathing is the key to meditation. We go through most of life not thinking about our breathing, and that is by design (if you had to think about every breath you took you'd never get anything done). But during meditation we want to focus on the rhythm of our body, and that is controlled by our breathing. Breathe in slowly, evenly and deeply, filling up the belly; then breathe out at the same pace. OM
Step Two: Passive Observation. When one lets the mind wander, different thoughts and images will come and go. Meditation is about letting go and not trying to control the mind, but to simply accept and let go. Observe your thoughts with detachment and most importantly without criticism. After a time the mind will quiet and relax and become more open to one's own guidance.
Step Three: Serenity Imagery. In this step, one's imagination is called upon to visualize an image that is calm, solid and serene. Imagine yourself as a rock in the middle of a rough sea or perhaps a stately tree yielding, yet standing solid against a storm. Feel yourself taking on the qualities of the image - tranquility, peaceful and unaffected by the elements around.
Step Four: Universal Connection.At this point you will begin to connect with infinite universe and understand the concept of oneness. Think of yourself as an intrinsic part of all humankind, all species and all things. Being one with all connects us at the deepest level and fills the body with love, understanding and brings a feeling of connection.
Step Five: Intention. This is where one focuses on a positive end state and visualizes the possibilities for a satisfying life. In many cases this does not have to be explicitly tied to one's feelings of loneliness. Loneliness is about dissatisfaction and meditation helps to gain serenity and satisfaction with the self and let negative thoughts and attitudes fall by the wayside.
Yoga and Loneliness
Yoga is a means of bringing in a physical aspect of meditation and peacefulness. For those attempting to overcome loneliness, practicing yoga has two very positive outcomes: first, yoga is a positive practice, so it helps clear away negativity making the person more aware of one's connection with the larger worlds; and second, yoga is most often a group activity that helps you connect with like-minded individuals. Loneliness comes from a perception of isolation. Yoga is about inclusiveness and being satisfied with the self and one's effort. It is supportive and the group benefits from individual participation.
Meditation and yoga are two wonderful practices for overcoming loneliness and finding renewed connection to joys and energy of life. To combat loneliness, one must act and there are few better actions than taking time to shed negativity with meditation and yoga.
