Meditation becoming mainstream

Not so long ago, yoga, tai chi, even acupuncture raised eyebrows as treatments for medical issues. Now, such practices are considered mainstream. The newest modality to be added to that list is meditation. Maria Hayes explains.

It’s the second day of class at The Willpower Institute in Niagara Falls. Over 20 students hope to reduce the frenzy in their daily lives by learning the ancient art of meditation…

Charmaine Smith is from the Willpower Institute: “It’s a technique that we teach so that students will have a skill and have the necessary coping abilities. And they can use it during stressful times during their days.”

The form of meditation is called Samata which means tranquil. The curriculum combining theory and practice was designed by a buddhist monk from Thailand. His lofty goal was to promote world peace.

“He believes that if you have a calm mind, then you have calm relationships. And you can actually calm other people in stressful situations.”

Selling meditation isn’t the challenge it was even a decade ago. Research suggests the benefits go beyond stress reduction.

“It increases the body’s ability to build the immune system. It increases your ability to fight disease, to relieve tension and lower your heart rate.”

Practitioners say it controls “monkey mind”. The racing thoughts and chatter that distract from focus. It calms anxiety and makes the mind stronger. And it’s an acquired skill.

“That’s the biggest surprise for most people. They think well i’m just going to quiet my mind and that’s not so simple. It is a challenge. It’s a skill. And it’s something you have to learn how to do.”

And because of the level of skill required, this isn’t a quick lesson or two. The course runs two hours a day, five days a week for six months. And it’s absolutely free.

“It’s surprising in the western world to have anything for free. They say if you pay for it, it must be worth it. But it is something that’s given as a gift.”

Though designed by a buddhist monk, The Willpower Institute meditation course is non-denominational. It’s open to students looking for certification, as well as those interested in the practice for personal growth. Contact
willpowerinstitute.com for more information.