When someone hears the word “meditation” it’s easy to picture a group of monks silently sitting cross-legged in a circle.
However, for some, it is not easy to conceptualize how this practice can positively impact so many facets of everyday life.
“Meditation refers to mind training practices that are designed to bring about a change in the human system,” said Carrie Heeter, a professor of media and information at MSU, she has been practicing meditation twice a day every day since June 2012.
Heeter emphasized that meditation can be beneficial in all aspects of life because it trains the mind to limit “self talk,” or the white noise that is present whenever people are alone with their thoughts.
Heeter explained that regular meditation can train the mind to regulate this inner monologue and help practitioners focus on the present moment.
“What we do during meditation is we spend eight, 10 (or) 12 minutes focusing attention on present moment experiences away from all of the stuff we’re thinking about and worrying about,” Heeter said. “Doing that is very useful, (meditation) relaxes the body and calms the mind and then focuses attention on now.”
Heeter said this practice helps the individual connect with his or her inner soul.
“Over time it builds the ability to do that and connect with yourself (and) in the rest of life ... not just during meditation,” Heeter said.
Apparel and textile design senior Calley Jastrow said meditation has improved her overall mood and behavior in addition to having benefits to her academics.
“It helps (me) to acknowledge the negative things in my life and let them go, while appreciating the positives and holding onto them,” Jastrow said. “It also keeps me stress free and organized which definitely is a plus when it comes to a crowded university schedule.”
Jastrow was introduced to meditation during her freshman year and has practiced it since then.
Heeter emphasized that the best way to get involved with meditation is to find a teacher to help guide you through the process.
However, because having a teacher isn’t always realistic, especially for students, Heeter and her meditation coach worked together to develop a set of guided meditations that are available for download through iTunes or Google Play.
The meditations available vary from traditional, calming and nourishing practices to more creative ones such as the purring cat meditation which allows participants to connect with the feeling and presence of a purring cat.
Heeter said the important thing when tackling meditation is “trying as opposed to succeeding.”
“Don’t give up on the whole thing if you try one and it doesn’t work, look for a different kind ... approach it with a curious mind and see how it feels because that’s really what it’s about ... understanding more of your own feelings and getting more in touch with yourself,” Heeter said.
