When was the last time you took a moment to truly be still? To silence the whirling thoughts in your mind, to disconnect from the world and to look inwards and be at peace? If today’s busy world is anything to go by, we’re guessing not for a while. According to cdc.gov, meditation is now the fastest-growing health trend in America, with the number of meditators tripling between 2012 and 2017. Intrigued by its popularity, three members of the team descended on the Colchester Buddhist Centre to try their newcomers meditation night.
We all noticed the welcoming atmosphere as we walked into the room. Filled with an array of people of differing ages, genders and reasons for being here – we felt amongst a real community. After a short introduction to the evening, we were split off into two groups – those who have been meditating for a while and the beginners. We were of course in the latter group for a guided meditation. Atulyamati, a trustee of The Buddhist Centre, told us during this evening’s session we would be focusing on Mettā (Pali) or maitrī (Sanskrit), which translates to benevolence, loving-kindness, friendliness, amity, good will, and active interest in others. As part of this, we were told to picture four people – ourselves, a good friend, an acquaintance and someone we find difficult to get on with. For each five minute section, we had to send love, peace and health to each person as we meditated on them. Sounds simple enough? Here’s how we got on.