We had the Sunday Introduction to Meditation Class at Yoga Bliss yesterday: a formal sitting meditation and a period of mindful walking and a Metta Meditation or loving kindness practice. Students shared about their difficulties in trying to adhere to my instructions, the physical pain of sitting still for so long, the difficult states of mind including agitation, racing thoughts, lethargy and sleepiness. Many of us approach meditation as yet another task to be done in order to achieve a benefit or goal. We believe we have to work hard in order to succeed.
I think hard work, study and devotion are wonderful abilities. Yet like many blessings of conscious beings they can be pursued to our torment. One student described rushing to “meditation class” and somehow finding herself late. She described her feelings of agitation and natural self-consciousness entering the quiet room. By the end of class she felt better, calmer. Like her, I sometimes realize a sense of grace when I can just hurl myself over bouts of agitation, controlling and struggle. When I am able to surrender what I think I know and enter a timeless spontaneity something magical happens – certainly change occurs.
I recently listened to an amazing interview with Dr. Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play. He is co-author of Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul. Dr. Brown describes: “play is anything that spontaneously is done for its own sake. . . . appears purposeless, produces pleasure and joy, leads one to the next stage of mastery. . . [through play] we learn empathy, trust, irony, and problem solving. . . ” What do we do spontaneously, joyfully, pleasurably? I know that simply smiling feels good and relaxes me even while meditating.
I never know who will come or what will be shared during our meetings. Yet I believe we all benefit in innumerable ways from hearing one another’s stories. We plant seeds in each other’s hearts never knowing how they’ll grow. I cherish the kindness we extend with our complete presence – listening wholeheartedly in the sacred space of acceptance. I hope to hear more adventures in playful mindfulness in the days to come.