At its core, meditation involves using mental techniques to observe and train the mind. In this sense, meditation can be seen as a technique—and indeed, there are thousands of techniques available. Among the most widely practiced are returning the attention to the breath, and cultivating compassion or loving-kindness.
When a technique is applied consistently over time, it becomes more than just a tool—it becomes a practice. A meditation practice, the ongoing and intentional effort to observe and train the mind, can be both deeply challenging and profoundly rewarding. Often, what arises during practice are the very mental patterns that prevent us from sitting down in the first place.
Encountering these obstacles can be disheartening at times, but also illuminating.
With sustained effort, a meditation practice evolves into something deeper—a process. Specifically, a process of letting go.
As we move through the layers of sensation, thought, and emotion in the body, often without much fanfare, we begin to release long-held patterns and conditioned responses. Emotions such as anger, helplessness, or guilt may begin to loosen their grip. Our reactions soften. Our behaviour becomes more open, creative, and free. Over time, we may find ourselves more resilient in the face of life’s challenges.
This unfolding process—this movement to greater freedom—is one of the many gifts of meditation.
In essence, meditation is a technique, a practice, and ultimately, a process of letting go.