The practice of meditation

As a student of Unity, I have been a meditator for a number of years without really knowing what meditation is, with its vast range of benefits, other than it is the Unity way of prayer. However, I have been part of these blessings in one way or the other since I began the practice. One blessing that readily comes up is my peace of mind. As days, weeks, months and years roll by the Idea of meditation gets clearer and clearer. 

For me, part of being here on earth is about relationships. Building relationships with myself, with others and everything in the world. Starting a relationship with myself begins by recognising something that I called the SPLATTER in me i.e., the body, mind and spirit acting differently, in their own way. I have over time come to believe, undoubtedly, that the practice of meditation is the only way to unite these seemingly splattered bodies as one.

Having said that, I would like to define meditation as the process that helps me to pay attention to the activities in and around me and consciously focus my awareness without judgement, to reach an experience of oneness. If I am not in a conscious relationship with my breath, body, food or clothing, I will not pay attention and I will not be aware of what any of these does to me or for me. It will just be something I am doing: for example, I eat because I am hungry without checking in to what food my body really needs! 

Amidst the numerous benefits of meditation, what motivates me more than anything is the Idea of attaining oneness. I may not have had a transcendental experience as most people would define, but the mere practice of meditation always brings me to a place of peace that lingers on, long after the meditation session. Practicing meditation is to me like ‘seeking first the kingdom, and everything shall be added to you’. The more I practice meditation, the better my relationships become with myself, my God, other people and my world. Now I can accept and be willing to do what God does, for myself and my world, while enjoying both the physiological and psychological benefits of meditation.

Soe Alaibi-Nwokocha 
International SEE student