Meditation

Researchers ar beginning to unfold the secrets toromantic notion of quitting everything and joining
speculation --an ancient practice that yieldsTibetan monks on a mountaintop is not the only path
modern-day benefits. In the highlands of theto meditate. You don't need to quit your job, give up
Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, citizenry looking at livelinessyour possessions and spend 30 days chanting. Recent
differently. Upon entering the local Buddhistresearch indicates that meditating brings about
monastery, there is a spectacular sculpture the sizedramatic effects in as little as a 10-minute session.
of a large oak. The intricate carving of clouds andSeveral studies have demonstrated that subjects
patterns painted in powerful colors. But as soon aswho meditated for a short time showed increased
winter gives means, this magnificent employmentalpha waves (the relaxed brain waves) and
volition melt to nonentity.decreased anxiety and depression.
The sculpture, in fact, is made of butter, and it is 1Epstein and several other experts feel that 's
of the highland multitude's symbols of the transienteffectiveness has to do with putting aside
nature of spirit. And sprightliness here is not easy.attachment to I's self. As he says, " you looking at
Villagers bicycle to oeuvre before dawn and returndirectly at a star at night, it's difficult to see. But you
home hanker after sunset. Many live with nil Moreexpression away slightly, it comes into focus. I find it
than dirt floors and rickety outhouses.to be the same manner with the egotism and
Upon entering these modest mud-brick homes, you'llmeditating.ace zeroes in on a sense of self through a
find no tables or chairs--just a yearn platform bed,practice of , the self-important self-importance
which sleeps a family of eight. However, once theparadoxically becomes elusive. You become Thomas
masses invite you in for tea, their smiles wide andMore aware that you interconnected with other
welcoming. How do they possess such inner calm inbeings, and you tin can better put your possess
conditions we would call less than ideal. Once villagersworries into their proper perspective." A group of
cook, sew or plow the fields they do so in a tranquilelderly Chinese maintain their connection by meeting
state. As an approach to living, weaving seamlesslyevery daybreak in the village common in Monterey
into almost every action throughout the day seemsPark, California. They swoop their arms and stretch
unfamiliar to Western cultures.their torsos in graceful harmony, and then stand
Is there something we tin glean from this agency ofabsolutely still, simply meditating. Only puffs of warm
biography that testament improve our have. Theair flow from their nostrils.