Diana Robinson
Have you ever found yourself gazing out of a window letting a daydream subside to a point of nothing – a time of no thoughts at all?
That is a natural meditation!
Simplistically, there are two types of meditation;
Invocative meditation, or active meditation and evocative meditation or passive meditation. Our natural thought process seems to start with an active or analytical process, and if that thought process is observed, it changes into a passive or receptive process.
Repeating a prayer, mantra, or affirmation is way to focus ones thoughts and ones mind on a specific thing with the intention of receiving something in return, or with a feeling of grace or gratitude fear or anger. It involves a separation of ones self caused by an observation of where you are in the moment and where you would like to be or how you would like to feel. This process in only part of meditation.
Sitting quietly and analyzing or contemplating a problem or a concept, either positive or negative is again only the beginning part of a meditation. This contemplation is also routed in an expected outcome or achievement.
Both of these above thought processes are active, invocative meditations. Both of these invocative meditations are a wonderful technique or resource to use to help you understand yourself in your world better, but this process does not always lead to a sense or peace and fulfillment.
The next time you pray, or contemplate, follow through with your thought process as normal, then allow yourself to sit in silence and observe your self. Your thoughts, what ever they are will pass though your mind. Just watch those thoughts and let them be what they are. After a moment or two you will experience a stillness where your though process stops and you can just be aware of yourself in the moment.
This two stage, active – passive process is as natural as a day dream, and if done after a prayer, affirmation, contemplation, it will add depth and wisdom to your personal experience.