Visualization and Meditation, Part One

Thus far, we have spoken of the meditative process as a way to clear one's mind. This allows for complete relaxation, as well as opening up our spirit to messages from within and from the divine. In addition, many yoga teachers use the process of guided visualization during the meditation portion of their class. Visualization can be used for relaxation; furthermore, it can be used to help focus our inner energy to acheive our goals.

When guided visualization is performed as part of a yoga class, it is usually done following whichever series of asanas has been practiced and after an initial set of deep breathing exercises. Some teachers have practitioners sit in half-lotus position, while others will have you lie on your back on your mat with palms up and feet comfortably apart. In most cases, you will be able to chose the position which is most comfortable for you. After focusing your concentration through deep breathing exercises, the teacher will gently talk you through the visualization process. If the purpose of visualization is for relaxation, he or she will usually have you picture a scene of natural beauty. This can be any place which is relaxing and significant to you. It can be a real place you have visited or one you create in your imagination. Some people chose to visualize a mountain scene, while others picture the beach. Some picture the desert, while others picture verdant forests. Whatever, or wherever, you visualize in your exercises, the teacher will help you lose yourself in the scene.

This type of visualization technique is particularly helpful for those who find achieving a state of perfect quiet by clearing their mind a difficult task. Sometimes it can be difficult to "think nothing" - we instead find ourselves trying so hard not to think that all we can think about is how difficult it is to achieve this state! By visualizing a beautiful scene, it can help clear our mind of clutter and help us to relax. It gives our mind a stress free picture to focus on. Practicing visualization in this manner can help us prepare for a deeper state of "clear mind" meditation or it can be an end in itself. Neither is superior to the other. The wonderful thing about yoga is it is completely non-competitive. A deeper level of meditation will occur naturally as you become ready. Guided visualization is simply one way to prepare yourself for deeper self-reflection.

Go To Page: 1 2