Mindfulness or Meditation?

Mindfulness has become an acceptable practice in modern life, used by many who would say they are not spiritual at all. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as, 
​“a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.”

It is excellent mind training. For most of us, this busy world has many distractions. Our minds are often unfocused and far from present to what we are feeling and experiencing in the ‘now’ moment. In fact, we often try to avoid these feelings and sensations, as they can be overwhelming and difficult. Mindfulness teaches us that when we practice being present, we find underneath the turmoil and anxiety, a deeper peace and sense of well-being. Consequently, we experience calmer, healthier and more fulfilling lives.
 
What about meditation? The Oxford English Dictionary defines meditating as, “focusing one's mind for a period of time in silence or with the aid of chanting, for religious or spiritual purposes or as a method of relaxation.” In Unity, meditation is “a steady effort of the mind to know God. It is man’s spiritual approach to God.” (Taken from Revealing Word, Charles Fillmore)
 
Immediately there is a different focus from mindfulness. It is not just about focusing our thoughts, although we begin here, training our bodies and minds to be still. It is about contemplation and reflection – creating space in our minds and hearts to ‘know God’.
 
In Unity, meditation is about transcending thought and feeling; moving beyond a single one-pointed focused thought. It is a practice inviting us to move into pure consciousness – the quality in us that knows itself as the Christ: the Self beyond thought and feeling where oneness with God is the true experience. Unity calls this practising the Silence. For in the Silence we know ourselves not as simply human, but as divine beings who are so much more than our human experiences.
 
In April, I will be leading a 5-week evening class on meditation. We will practise different techniques to relax the body and focus the mind. All with the intention of moving into the Silence and the deeper part of us that is beyond thought.
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Would you like to join this class? Click here for more details.  Meditate on the possibility and book your place if the answer is yes!

Rev. Kimerie Mapletoft
Director of Silent Unity and Daily Word UK