My Personal Sitting Meditation: Spiritual Guide
At Day 6 of my meditative journey, I noticed that my mind-chatter was beginning to diminish much faster than the previous days. My routine has been to first engage in a gym workout. It starts with some cardio in the elipitical machine, then over to some free weights, ending with a meditative practice. I usually sit in the dry sauna. It is generally quiet and empty so I can fully embrace the moment. I put on my headphones, open the MyNoise app, set a timer while listening to the Tibetan Choir chants. On average, I will spend about 11 minutes meditating.
As I mentioned, Day 6 felt different. Continuing to practice Vipassana meditation, I allowed my thoughts to enter my consciousness then let them drift by like clouds in an afternoon sky. Many thoughts would roll through my head, but this time, there was only a steady rumble of thoughts that seemed to dissipate quickly. I was left with a quitter mind that showed quite quickly. Feeling good about this minor achievement, I decided to sit a bit longer in the sauna. I added 4 more minutes to my timer concluding my practice with a 15-minute meditative moment.
One of the things I have embraced along my spiritual and meditative journey is honoring my ancestors. Those that have passed before me yet have paved a path of light and guidance. These are people (and even animals) that I knew or did not know, but have an influence on my life on this planet. While in prayer or mindfulness meditation, I call on them to give me guidance and strength as I proceed on my mortal life journey.
Sometimes though, my mind and heart feel heavy and it is hard to access them. The truth is, they are ALWAYS present yet I forget to access them when I know I need them. During my March Meditation Practice, I was able to create an access for my honored ancestors to be more present. It took until day 13 to open a space and invite them in. I look forward in the coming days to continue opening that door so I can feel their full presence.
Do you have a Source or Spirit Guide? How do they help you in your prayers and meditative practice?