We Don't Meditate to Relax: Discovering the Deeper Purpose
Beautiful Friends,
I want to share some reflections on a practice that has profoundly influenced my life and my teaching: meditation. Many of you might not know this, but meditation is a core part of what I share at Sadie Wells Yoga, and I want to take a moment to explain why.
My Journey with Meditation
Back in 2020, like many of us, I found myself seeking solace amidst the uncertainty. During this time, I discovered Sam Harris’ Waking Up app, a resource that has since become an integral part of my daily routine. I was introduced to Sam through an online course I was taking with a facilitator of Byron Katie's The Work. The simplicity and depth of his approach to meditation resonated with me immediately.
Sam Harris' app is more than just a collection of guided meditations; it's a comprehensive guide to understanding the mind. His introductory course, which only requires 10 minutes a day, offers profound insights that have reshaped my understanding of what a meditation practice truly is.
Beyond Relaxation: The True Essence of Meditation
In the West, we've often been sold the idea that meditation is primarily for relaxation, stress relief, and improving focus. While it certainly offers these benefits, they are merely the byproducts. The real purpose of meditation, as Sam Harris and many others teach, is far deeper. It's about seeing the world differently and understanding the nature of consciousness.
Meditation, particularly the Non-Dual Mindfulness practice that Sam teaches, invites us to see things as they truly are—undistracted, unified, and present. This perspective aligns with the teachings of many spiritual traditions, including Buddhism, Eckhart Tolle, Byron Katie's The Work, Adyashanti, Alan Watts, Thich Nhat Hanh, and Jiddu Krishnamurti.
The Real Benefits of Meditation
While meditation can help with relaxation, anxiety, stress, blood pressure, depression, nervous system regulation, focus, attention, and memory, these are just bonuses. The true gift of meditation is the shift in how we perceive and interact with the world. It's about being fully present and experiencing life as it unfolds, without the constant chatter of the mind.
Why I Guide Meditation This Way
At Sadie Wells Yoga, my approach to guiding meditation is deeply influenced by these principles. I want to offer you more than just a tool for relaxation; I want to guide you towards a practice that can transform your perspective and enrich your life in profound ways. Whether through our regular classes or our dedicated meditation sessions, my goal is to help you find that moment of clarity and presence.
Join Me on This Journey
If you haven’t yet explored meditation, I encourage you to give it a try. Start small, with just a few minutes a day, and see where it takes you. And if you’re already practicing, I hope this perspective offers new insights into your journey.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible community. I am grateful for each and every one of you, and I look forward to continuing this journey together.
With all my love and gratitude,
Sadie x