The Origins & Benefits of Meditation
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Wall paintings of ancient meditation practices, dated 5000-3500BCE, were discovered in the Indus Valley by archaeologists in the early twentieth century: perhaps proving that meditation played a spiritual role long before the emergence of the Hindu, Buddhist and Taoist religions that we often associate with the custom.
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Meditation is a key component of all Indian and East Asian religions, and throughout time Abrahamic religions have also come to develop their own forms. Depending on the underlying philosophy of each faith, their intentions may differ; some seek a closeness to God or aspire to realise universal truths, whilst others aim to develop self-discipline and a detachment from worldly desires. Likewise methods vary; from reciting prayers or mantras, to focusing on the breath or an image, to simply sitting quietly in contemplation. However the search for deeper meaning and pursuit of personal improvement seems to be shared by all.
Whilst meditation may have its roots in spiritualism, its benefits have many more earthly, physiological benefits. Consequently it is becoming more popular as people seek ways to combat the challenges of modern day life. With appropriate guidance and gentle discipline the practice can have a profoundly transformative effect. Mastering the ability to quieten the mind and cultivate more positive ways of being is an effective way to overcome the anxiety, confusion, hostility and overall discontent that plagues modern society. It also provides an endless source of peace, joy and compassion, and has the power to dramatically enrich your life. |
Amulet Meditation...
Meditation sessions facilitated at Amulet are ideal for newcomers to the practice or those with previous experience who feel they would benefit from a guided session.
Introduction to Meditation Sessions
For those who are new to meditation, I offer a 60 minutes introductory session that will provide you with all you need to confidently begin your own practice. The session begins with a short introduction into the philosophy and benefits of meditation before moving on to look at the techniques used. A series of short guided meditation exercises are then presented to help gently build your practice, these exercises are interspersed with periods of relaxation and discussion before we move on to the next stage. For beginners' sessions I tend to use Anapanasati, a Buddhist form of meditation that focuses on the breath; however if time allows we may also explore other styles such as the Metta Bhavana. At the end of the session you will be provided with some resources to support you as you establish your own personal practice.
Guided Meditation Sessions
Guided or led meditation is helpful regardless of how much meditation experience you may have. It can provide support where discipline is lacking and enrich the practice through the cultivation of new perspectives and approaches. With a choice of meditation styles to choose from (see below), I offer a 30 minute session of guided meditation to those with previous meditation experience or those who have completed the introductory session.
Introduction to Meditation Sessions
For those who are new to meditation, I offer a 60 minutes introductory session that will provide you with all you need to confidently begin your own practice. The session begins with a short introduction into the philosophy and benefits of meditation before moving on to look at the techniques used. A series of short guided meditation exercises are then presented to help gently build your practice, these exercises are interspersed with periods of relaxation and discussion before we move on to the next stage. For beginners' sessions I tend to use Anapanasati, a Buddhist form of meditation that focuses on the breath; however if time allows we may also explore other styles such as the Metta Bhavana. At the end of the session you will be provided with some resources to support you as you establish your own personal practice.
Guided Meditation Sessions
Guided or led meditation is helpful regardless of how much meditation experience you may have. It can provide support where discipline is lacking and enrich the practice through the cultivation of new perspectives and approaches. With a choice of meditation styles to choose from (see below), I offer a 30 minute session of guided meditation to those with previous meditation experience or those who have completed the introductory session.
Anapanasati |
Anapanasati is better known as the 'Mindfulness of Breathing'. It is a form of Samatha meditation which serves to calm, as opposed to Vipassana meditation which serves to create insight. During this meditation we withdraw from the distracting thoughts that clutter our mind by focusing our attention on the physical sensations of the breath. By this means we are able to overcome negative compulsions that may drive our thoughts and redirect our energy into creating a more balanced and positive state of mind.
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Metta Bhavana |
Metta Bhavana, also known as 'the development of loving-kindness', is a soothing yet profound meditation that generates a positive emotional state for ourselves and others allowing us to become more patient, tolerant and compassionate. It can be practiced as a guided meditation or can be self-led. There are four sections where a mantra is repeated to bestow love to yourself, to a friend, a person you are indifferent to and lastly a person you have difficulties with. The meditation culminates in a spreading of joy and love to the wider world.
To enjoy a free guided Metta Bhavana meditation click here |
Yoga Nidra |
Yoga nidra (yogic sleep) is a powerful, yet incredibly simple, guided meditation technique. As the voice leads you on a journey through the five layers (pancha maya koshas) of the body, a deeply restful state is achieved. Some practitioners are content just to enjoy these profoundly relaxing sensations. Others may use this safe environment to explore personal challenges (samskaras) from a remote perspective and often experience a release from negative emotions. Whatever your intention for the practice, you will be left feeling rested, nourished and with a sense of wholeness.
To enjoy a free Yoga Nidra meditation click here |
Chakra Healing |
Chakras are wheels of energy or prana (vital life force) that connect to the nerve centres in the body. There are seven main chakras running parallel with the spine, each effecting our major organs. As the chakras influence our physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual states it is essential that they are kept free of blockages so that the energy is allowed to flow. A chakra healing meditation cleanses and restores energy to each of the seven main chakras and brings balance and a state of well-being to the body.
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Walking |
Anything we do can become a meditation; walking, eating, household chores. Bringing awareness to each and every aspect of the task we are doing allows us to be present in the moment, thus achieving a meditative state. During a walking meditation we are mindful of the sensations created by each step, consequently the mind is calmed in concentration. The practice is useful for those who find the stillness required in sitting meditation challenging. It is also ideal for those who experience tension in the body due to long periods of inactivity. Overall the practice is extremely sensuous and pleasurable.
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Session at Amulet Studio...All sessions at the Amulet Studio are private and can be enjoyed on a one-to-one basis or as a group. Unfortunately due to limited space I can only take for a maximum of 6 people in the studio but can cater for a larger groups in the Amulet garden, at your own home, or perhaps at another peaceful outdoor location.
The session will include meditations in both seated and supine positions which will typically be performed on the floor. Yoga mats, meditation cushions and blankets are supplied to ensure optimum comfort but chairs are also available for those who would prefer. As body temperature can drop when sitting still for some time it is advised that you wear warm, comfortable clothing (blankets are provided). It is best not to eat a heavy meal an hour or so before meditating but a snack or light meal will be fine. |
Session at your own home...'At Home’ sessions can cater for any number of people providing you have the space. It follows the same format as the one in the studio, however a supplement fee is added to the typical session price to cover travel time and costs. Costs vary depending on location so please view the Supplement Table on the prices page or enquire about costs at the time of booking.
Before the booking is confirmed we can discuss the best setting for the session; meditation can be practiced anywhere however a nice peaceful spot is preferable. Meditations will be performed in both seated and supine positions so we will need a minimum of 1m x 2m per person. If adequate floor space is not available then a combination of chairs, sofas and floor cushions can be used. Depending on group size and where the session will be carried out, I will bring mats, meditation cushions and blankets. |
Payments
I accept cash payments in Euros or French cheques. For large group bookings payments can also be made by paypal or bank transfer in advance.
Cancellation Policy
• Appointments may be cancelled without charge 48 hours in advance.
• Full price will be charged for same-day cancellations or no-shows
• Full price will be charged for same-day cancellations or no-shows