Aliki Nassoufis,
dpa
Posted Nov
17, 2012
Berlin (dpa) - Sitting in the lotus position, eyes closed,
murmuring a protracted "om" is what many people picture when they think of
meditation. But meditation is more than that - it is an effective way to relax.
"Meditation is a general term for a variety of mental techniques," said
Bjoern Husmann, a psychotherapist and chairman of the German Society for
Relaxation Techniques. The techniques involve different forms of concentration
and reflection, and "in many cultures there's a religious element as well,"
Husmann said.
Many people use meditation to reduce stress and the stream of thoughts.
"We've never learned to manage our mind and thoughts," said Maren
Schneider, a non-medical practitioner of psychotherapy and author of books on
meditation. "Our thoughts usually compel us to act." For example: Don't forget
the bank transfer. Be sure to call the new client tomorrow. "But you can learn
to gain autonomy over your thoughts and decide whether you want to heed them or
not."
Meditation is well suited for this purpose, she said. One way is to
concentrate, while either sitting or lying down, on your breathing, for example
in your abdomen. You should be able to feel your belly expand when you inhale
and contract when you exhale.
"It's not easy to hold your attention on your breathing alone, though.
Especially in the beginning, your thoughts keep wandering," Schneider said. But
this is no problem - you just have to concentrate on your breathing again. "It's
like a workout for your mind and as time goes on you'll learn to be less
distracted."
Visualization is another kind of meditation. "Instead of focusing on your
breathing, you focus on a certain picture in your mind's eye" that conveys
tranquility or peace of mind, Husmann explained.
People interested in learning how to meditate can consult books or look
for a teacher.
Meditation is suitable for many people, but not all. "Someone in severe
pain or with severe depression will hardly be able to relax," Husmann said.
Lutz Hertel, a psychologist and chairman of the German Wellness
Association, warned, "There are risks for people who are very anxious and
inclined towards brooding and frightful thoughts. Meditation could intensify
their feelings of anxiety." Meditation is no substitute for psychotherapy, he
added.
Copyright 2012 dpa
Deutsche Presse-Agentur GmbH
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