Gratitude Helps Become Enlightened
A Path to Enlightenment Through Gratitude: Applying Eastern Philosophy to Enrich Your Life
It seems that everyone is interested in living a more meaningful life. Eastern philosophy may be able to help you with this, since it’s rich with dynamic, spiritual ideas. Many of these concepts can be applied to your life regardless of which religion your spiritual beliefs align with. But the bottom line is that just about every religion or belief has a component of Gratitude incorporated.
Enlightenment is a well-known Eastern idea. Meditation, another practice embraced by many philosophies, helps you de-stress, become more focused, heighten your gratitude, and maintain good balance. Living with an understanding of the centuries-old concept of “karma” may also enrich your life.
Eastern Concept of Enlightenment
In Eastern philosophies, to become enlightened means to experience an “awakening.” It’s widely held that enlightenment is a state that must be experienced. Although this explanation seems nebulous at best, suffice it to say that enlightenment is a state deeply sought by those applying Eastern philosophies in their lives. One way some of these people seek enlightenment is through meditation.
Meditation: A How-To
Meditation is a state of being that brings forth feelings of peace, gratitude, tranquility and happiness. When your busy life seems overwhelming, allow yourself even just 10 minutes to sit peacefully. Meditation can be an excellent way banish stress and bring balance back into your life.
Follow these steps to bring the benefits of meditating into your life:
- Find a relaxing, quiet place to practice. Plan to not be disturbed for 10 or 15 minutes to start. You can build this up to an hour when you are comfortable (and have the time to do so).
- Sit comfortably. Although there are many classic poses, feel free to sit in a comfortable chair with your feet flat on the floor.You can also sit with legs crossed, leaning against a wall. Sitting on the floor while leaning gently against the side of your bed may also be quite comfortable.
- Listen to your breathing. Use the sound and experience of breathing in and breathing out as your focal point. Allow yourself to breathe naturally.
- If this is your first time meditating, know that it’s normal to experience some frustration over being unable to “clear” your mind. When these thoughts arise, just bring your attention back to your breath.
- When thoughts float in, simply allow them to float out. Remember that your focus is your breathing. So, shift your thoughts to the gentle “in and out” flow of your breath.
By the end of 10 or 15 minutes, you’ll most likely find that you’re feeling calm, rested and ready to return to your world. Practicing meditation just twice daily (or even once, if you’re very busy!) will improve your mood and help you de-stress.
Be Well.
Paul.
The Gratitude Guru