Today’s Meditation:
No Goal But This
There is a Zen saying ‘No goal but the path’.
Reminding us to live life in a simple way: chopping wood, drawing water from the well…
Chopping wood, drawing water from the well
Singing the holy name, ringing the temple bell
Out here on the edge of the abyss
There is no goal but this
We didn‘t come to discuss if there‘s a god above
We came to get up – stand up – sing out in the name of love
We find ourselves here in a place where time does not exist
And there is no goal but this
We‘re singing out the mantra, our voices in the sky
Nobody holding back, nobody busy with the question why
Hearts are open, aim is true, tonight we cannot miss
Because there is no goal but this
I really love you Deva, you‘re the apple in my pie
You‘re my Gayatri Mantra, you‘re the honey in my chai
You‘re my vegetarian dish, no meat no fish
And I‘m here to fulfil your every wish
And there is no goal but this
(“No Goal But This”, from the album “Temple At Midnight” by Miten. Composition: Miten)
We are honoured to receive you.
Meditation may look serious, but as your practice deepens you will discover a joyful activity. Meditation is an adventure into Nothingness. An experience of ‘relaxed awareness’.
We are here to replenish the spirit and rejuvenate the cells, so take the time to slow down. Find a comfortable space to sit, where you can be relaxed and at the same time, alert.
Sit with an upright spine if possible, and relax your shoulders. Remember, meditation is not a serious activity. It is a gift from ourselves to ourselves.
Make sure you will be undisturbed for the duration of the session.
If you choose to lie down remember this activity is not about falling into sleep, so bring your attention to the incoming and outgoing of your breath, and stay alert.
As the mind wanders, take care not to blame yourself.
Just simply come back to the mantra and the rhythm of your breath.
We suggest you meditate with closed eyes so you will be undistracted by any external sensation.
Our suggestion is to create a daily ritual that will support your meditation.
This could include:
- Lighting a candle.
- Lighting incense or using an aroma lamp.
- Ringing a temple bell (or chimes) at the beginning – and at the end – of every session.
We are practicing relaxed awareness. So do what you can to stay alert, and as your system gradually slows down you will become aware of the sounds around you. Listening to every sound, as God’s orchestra, your attention will eliminate the chatter of the busy mind.
Chant the mantra OM 3 times with the mudra ‘Namaste’.
This will tune you consciously into the energy of the sangha – your brothers and sisters and fellow travellers, who are also joining the meditation.
The duration of the meditation will be about 10-15 minutes. If possible, meditate at the same time, in the same location. This will create a nurturing habit that will support your practice.
Most meditations will include chanting and we encourage you to chant with us – the words and translations given each day will deepen your experience.
If you find that some of the mantras are too difficult, don’t worry. Just close your eyes and let the mantra penetrate your being. Let its transformative power wash over you.
Often we feel the effect of meditation when chant is completed. So don’t miss this powerful moment. Sit quietly for a few more minutes with your eyes closed, and give thanks by bowing in Namaste.
Complete your meditation with the Sanskrit prayer for Universal Peace:
Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.
And – remember – the quality of your meditation will radiate peaceful frequencies into the cosmic field – you are contributing to the welfare of your global human family.
Have a joyous meditation!