Embrace meditation for peace and harmony
Published:Thursday | December 26, 2024 | 12:06 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
According to archaeologists, meditation dates back to 5,000 BC, and the practice has ties in ancient Egypt and China, Judaism, Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism and Buddhism. Estimates suggest that between 200 and 500 million people practise meditation worldwide. Meditation is an ancient practice that involves focusing one’s attention on the present moment. This ancient practice is rooted in religious, yogic, and secular traditions across cultures.
Today, it is embraced worldwide, transcending its spiritual origins to become a universal tool for personal well-being and mental health. The most recognised definition of meditation generally describes it as a practice where an individual uses techniques such as mindfulness, focused attention, or concentrated thought to train the mind and achieve a state of mental clarity, emotional calmness, and physical relaxation. The United Nations adds that there are diverse types of meditation, each offering unique approaches to achieving calm, clarity, and balance. Research underscores its ability to reduce stress, improve focus and emotional balance, alleviate anxiety and depression, and enhance sleep quality. The practice of meditation also contributes to better physical health, including lowering blood pressure and managing pain. Technology has further expanded access to meditation, with apps and online platforms enabling individuals to practice anywhere and anytime.
In order to raise awareness about meditation and its benefits, the United Nations General Assembly declared December 21 as the first-ever World Meditation Day. Meditation is increasingly recognised globally for its contributions to mental health a fundamental human right. Additionally, meditation is also seen for the alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially goal #3 that addresses Good Health and Well-Being.
The theme for World Meditation Day 2024 was “Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony.” The theme emphasises the role of meditation in fostering global peace and unity.
The first-ever World Meditation Day aims to promote meditation as a powerful tool for enhancing mental well-being and global peace. This initiative also aims to address rising stress, violence, and social disconnection in today’s fast-paced world. We all need to press the pause button and look inward to see how best we can make this world a better place.
WAYNE CAMPBELL