Have you ever thought about trying meditation classes but put off because you didn’t think it was for you? Many people still believe that to meditate or practice mindfulness you must be a certain kind of person. This is a misguided belief that can prevent many from taking up this centuries-old practice which has numerous benefits for their mental, emotional, as well as physical health. Meditation: What does it mean?
Originating in Asia, around 1500 BCE was the first evidence of meditation. This technique encourages and develops concentration. There are many kinds of meditation. Meditation is the most well-known form, with more than one sixth of Brits regularly practicing it.
What are meditation classes?
Meditation classes can take place anywhere, at any time. Most meditation classes are guided by a certified Meditation Teacher. Meditation classes can seem intimidating or overwhelming if you are new to meditation. However, the benefit of having a group of people around you and the expert guidance of a teacher can make the experience much more successful than attempting it all alone. Depending on which type of online meditation course in London you choose, you may be invited to either lie flat on a surface or sit in a chair. There is no “right” way to position oneself. What is most comfortable is what is safest. Some classes will use soft music. These instruments could include bells, bells, chimes or meditation bowls. Others may only have the teacher’s voice. Whatever the format, meditation classes offer many benefits. Some of these we have listed below.
Meditation classes can take place anywhere, at any time. They’re usually taught by qualified Meditation Teachers. Meditation classes can seem intimidating or overwhelming if you are new to meditation. However, the benefit of having a group of people around you and the expert guidance of a teacher can make the experience much more successful than attempting it all alone. Depending upon the type of meditation being done, you might be asked to sit up straight on the floor, in a chair, or even on a comfortable mat. There is no “right” way to position oneself. What is most comfortable is what is safest. Some classes use soft music. They may include instruments like bells, bells, chimes or meditation bowls. Other classes only have the teacher’s vocals. Whatever the format, meditation classes offer many benefits. Some of these we have listed below.
1. A teacher who is experienced and can provide expert guidance
Many new clients often ask what to expect when they enroll in their first meditation class. The beauty of meditation classes in a group, such as those offered at The Wellness Workshop, is that, unlike other forms of meditation, where you are alone and use an app on a phone or follow written instructions, they offer access to an experienced teacher who can answer questions, give reassurance, and give individual tips for integrating meditation and mindfulness into your daily life. The teachers use meditation tools, carefully selected music, and a variety if scents (from candles/diffusers) to enhance the experience. This creates a calm environment that promotes relaxation.
2. Structured format
Many of you have tried mindfulness and meditation at home. But, like me, your efforts were interrupted by screaming children, ringing phones or the sound of the washer running. Meditation classes are structured in a way that keeps you closed to distractions outside of meditation. This allows you to concentrate on the sounds of breath, the voice and the flow your thoughts. Even though you might feel overwhelmed and want to quit, you are not allowed to walk out of a meditation course halfway through. This encourages you to try it and develop a consistent habit.
3. Shared experience
The saying “power is in numbers” has been around for a while. It’s similar to the feeling you get when you join a group exercise class, rather than working out by yourself. Meditating in a group creates a Zen-like energy and amplifies the overall experience. Yoga International reported that EEG recordings taken during a meditation class revealed brainwaves in which participants synchronized while they meditate. This is evident in a 1988 study that was done in England in which a group of people regularly meditated together. The town’s crime rates dropped dramatically during the study. No other factors could be attributed for this change.
4. Habit formation
Meditation is a well-studied practice that requires you to have a consistent meditation practice. Habits allow us to do things almost instantly without having to think about them. The need to be motivated or willpower is no longer a factor in making decisions. Three things are required to create a habit: the Cue and the Routine. Meditation classes that are held at regular times on regular days provide the structure to help you create a habit. The time of class is the trigger. It’s the routine of driving or walking to the exact same place, meeting the same people, and sitting down in the same seat. The feel-good endorphins that you get after class acts as the reward. Without realising it, habits can build up over time and you may end up going to the same meditation class for many years.
5. Connect to others
As we age our circle of friends shrinks. This is why we tend to choose carefully who we surround ourselves. Regularly participating in meditation classes can provide you with a sense if community and connection to likeminded people around you. It is a great way of meeting new people in your community and allows you to develop friendships based upon common interests outside of work.
6. There is no technology or handheld device that is required
It seems a bit ironic to us that sometimes the very thing you are trying to stress about, such as your phone, can actually cause you stress. It is ironic that your phone can be the facilitator for meditation. A qualified teacher will guide you through meditation classes, so there’s no need to worry about blue lighting, interruptions, battery life, or how to use it. There is nothing that will stop you enjoying the benefits from meditation class. All you have to do is step into that room and forget about all the rest of the world (even for a few minutes).
7. Meditation changes your brain
Scientists now demonstrate mindfulness meditation’s effect on the brain through functional magnetic resonance image scans. Sara Lazar, a Harvard University researcher, found that brain areas like the hippocampus and the amygdala – responsible for fear and anxiety – changed in volume and appearance during a single study. These changes were corroborated by self-reports from participants who felt happier and calmer. Similar studies demonstrate mindfulness meditation’s positive influence on anxiety, addiction and concentration. It takes only two hours to meditate per week.
