5 Options For Anyone Interested In Learning About Meditation

Helpful Resources For Learning About Meditation

5 Ways Meditation Affects Health

According to the National Institutes of Health

1. There is some evidence that meditation may reduce blood pressure.
2. A growing body of evidence suggests that meditation-based programs may be helpful in reducing common menopausal symptoms.
3. There is moderate evidence that meditation improves symptoms of anxiety.
4. For people who suffer from cancer symptoms and treatment side effects, mind-body therapies, such as meditation, have been shown to help relieve anxiety, stress, fatigue, and general mood and sleep disturbances, thus improving their quality of life.
5. Meditation is generally considered to be safe for healthy people. However, people with physical limitations may not be able to participate in certain meditative practices involving movement.

Debunking The 5 Most Common Meditation Myths

Tools That Can Help You Meditate At Home

Going to a meditation studio is a great way to learn new techniques and form a community, but it's also good to be able to clear your mind from the comfort of home. Here are some tools that can help you practice mindfulness every day:

• A comfortable cushion
• Singing bowls
• Candles
• A yoga mat
• Noise canceling headphones
• A zen garden
• Incense

Does Meditation Really Affect Your Brain?

In Depth

Meditation may be an ancient practice, but it's perhaps never been more important than it is now. In our frenetic modern world, it gives us the opportunity to slow down, withdraw from the action, and physically and mentally replenish. The studios and centers included here, listed in no particular order, can help newcomers and experienced practitioners alike achieve balance, clarity, and contentedness.

Coming in at #1 is Chill. With the mission of helping people lead less stressed and more mindful lives, this Chicago-based studio offers guided classes in modern meditation and yoga. Its core classes range from 30 to 60 minutes, and focus on principles of breath, insight, and rest. The studio has a selection of membership options, and also provides private instruction for those not interested in group sessions.

Other offerings include Chill Co, a suite of corporate meditation and wellness programs designed to boost employee mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and productivity. Companies choose from several programming options, and can work with the studio team to customize classes specific to their corporate culture and challenges. There's also Chill Ed, which includes an intensive training course that gives teachers the tools they need to deepen their practices and lead others in guided meditation.

Other offerings include Chill Co, a suite of corporate meditation and wellness programs designed to boost employee mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and productivity.

For #2 we have Insight Meditation South Bay, a center in the Silicon Valley dedicated to the liberating teachings of the Buddha. Founded by Shaila Catherine, it uses mindfulness-based meditative approaches to spur spiritual awakening, and requires no adherence to religious dogma. IMSB's ongoing programs include two weekly sitting groups, retreats of varying lengths, and Buddhist study courses held both in person and online.

Rooted in the Theravada Buddhist tradition, IMSB's programs explore a broad array of teachings while nurturing the development of mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom. Most programs are open to participants at any experience level, while some retreats and courses are specifically designated for beginners or advanced practitioners. Additionally, IMSB provides many resources through its website, including talks, articles, interviews, and audio and video teachings.

At #3 is Houston Zen Center. The Abbot, teachers, and leaders of the Center are trained in the Soto Zen tradition, which focuses on tranquil, object-free meditative awareness. Courses on introductory and advanced topics are offered throughout the year, as are retreats and special events led by visiting teachers. HZC also has a Sunday program that includes meditation, dharma talks, temple stewardship, and social gatherings.

The Abbot, teachers, and leaders of the Center are trained in the Soto Zen tradition, which focuses on tranquil, object-free meditative awareness.

Classes at HZC are taught by the Abbot, Gaelyn Godwin, and by senior members of the Center. Among the ongoing offerings are an introduction to Zen sitting course and a monthly meeting for LGBTQ+ practitioners. There's also the Houston Dharma Collective, a group of diverse individuals who meet to meditate and discuss the Buddha's teachings. With an emphasis on inclusivity, HZC welcomes people of all backgrounds, circumstances, and abilities.

Next, for #4 we get The DEN Meditation. With two locations in Los Angeles, it provides guided courses for every lifestyle and day of the week. Offerings include an assortment of in-person and virtual classes, including ones centered on aroma and sound therapy, healing crystals, mindfulness, and exercises for kids and teens. Aiming to create a comfortable community space, The DEN treats studio participants to complimentary tea, coffee, and wi-fi.

Additional options include private meditation classes and healings, sessions for corporations, and curated retreats to places in California and beyond. Online, there are certification programs for those looking to enhance their practices, and a range of workshops that broaden understanding of specific subjects. Another useful resource is DENtalks, a podcast that features inspiring guest conversations. Each episode includes a question and answer section and a short meditation or activity.

Online, there are certification programs for those looking to enhance their practices, and a range of workshops that broaden understanding of specific subjects.

Finally, arriving at #5 is Red Doors Studio, situated in the heart of the Wong Chuk Hang area on Hong Kong Island. Utilizing yoga, body work, and a large collection of meditation gongs, it brings ancient practices of deep relaxation to the community. The Studio embraces the philosophy that such time-honored methods can continue to center, heal, and uplift us, providing an antidote to our hyperactive modern culture.

Integral to Red Doors Studio are its sound experiences, which are designed to ease muscle tension, rejuvenate energy, and calm the mind. Experiences include regularly scheduled new moon and full moon gong baths, gong trainings, and private or small group sessions. For other forms of meditation, the Studio invites participants to walk its permanent, ten-circuit labyrinth and partake in mandala workshops. There are also Kundalini yoga sessions, which involve mantras, conscious breathing, body locks, and postures.