PERSPECTIVE: Meditation Isn’t New!

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Perspective

Meditation Isn’t New! But Here’s What It’s Taught Me

What comes to your mind when you hear the word meditation? Have you ever tried it, or does it still feel unfamiliar? For some people, meditation might seem like a trendy new wellness habit. But actually, it’s been around for centuries. In Indonesia, especially among older generations, meditation can carry a different meaning. Some even associate it with mystical or supernatural practices, like using it to gain power or wealth, which can lead to some pretty negative assumptions.

My grandparents are Javanese, and their traditions are deeply rooted in Hindu beliefs. Meditation itself is closely tied to both Hinduism and Buddhism, religions that are part of our ancestral history. But despite that, meditation isn’t very popular among the younger generation in Indonesia today. That’s a shame, because studies show meditation can really help us emotionally. It’s like a mental detox that clears out negativity and helps bring peace into our daily lives.

Honestly, I didn’t know much about meditation myself until recently. A friend of mine invited me to try a group meditation session, and I was curious, so I joined. At first? I didn’t really feel anything. It was super quiet, and I tried to focus on myself, but my mind kept wandering. Plus, halfway through, my foot started cramping! I followed the guide’s instructions the best I could, but it honestly felt more tiring than relaxing.

Still, I stuck with it, and over time, I started noticing small changes. I felt calmer. I could handle my emotions more easily. And I believe that if you can control your emotions, you can control your desires too.

Since then, I’ve really come to appreciate what meditation has taught me. As human beings, our emotions are all over the place, they change depending on our mood, stress, or the people around us. But meditation helps me slow down and focus on the good things. It helps me stay grounded and avoid falling into negative thoughts or harmful temptations.

It’s a simple practice, but the effects build gradually. Like anything worth doing, it takes time and patience. And for me, it’s been worth every minute.

So, that’s my perspective. If you’ve never tried meditation, maybe give it a shot, you might be surprised at what it teaches you about yourself.

Warm regards :b