When it comes to finding solace and inner peace in today’s fast-paced world, many people turn to meditation. It’s a practice that has benefited countless individuals, allowing them to sit still and experience the present moment. However, I’ve come to realize that meditation isn’t suitable for everyone, and in some cases, it may even be contraindicated.
This realization came to me through firsthand experiences with clients who had negative reactions while attempting to practice meditation. As a practitioner, I have witnessed individuals who, instead of finding calm and peace during meditation, experienced a range of intense emotions such as anger, anxiety, frustration, or even sadness. These reactions were surprising and concerning, as meditation is often portrayed as a universally beneficial practice.
One client stands out in my memory. She came to me seeking guidance on incorporating meditation into her daily routine to reduce stress and anxiety. However, as she began her meditation sessions, she found herself overwhelmed by a surge of negative emotions. Rather than feeling a sense of tranquillity, she experienced heightened anger, anxiety and panic which seemed to intensify during and after her meditation practice.
Digging deeper into her experiences, it became evident that meditation was triggering unresolved emotional issues and traumatic memories for this client. The act of sitting quietly and turning inward allowed suppressed emotions to surface, causing distress rather than relief. This observation highlighted the potential for meditation to have adverse effects on individuals who have unresolved emotional trauma or who are not yet ready to confront certain aspects of their inner world.
I’ve encountered individuals who have struggled with mental disturbances, such as psychosis and personality disorders and have found meditation to be unsuitable for their well-being. Without proper medical supervision, it can potentially worsen existing mental health issues. I recall a client who had a history of anxiety and depression attempting to meditate, hoping it would bring relief. However, instead of finding peace, he experienced increased anxiety and felt overwhelmed by his thoughts. It was a stark reminder that meditation isn’t a universal solution.
The science behind why meditation isn’t suitable for everyone became clear as I delved deeper into the subject. Research has shown that individuals react differently to meditation techniques, and these reactions may not always be positive. Some people may experience adverse effects like heightened anxiety, depression, or even full-blown psychosis. This understanding was reinforced when I learned that mindfulness interventions, despite their widespread popularity, have shown mixed results and are only moderately effective in treating conditions like depression, anxiety, and pain.
While meditation offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to understand that there are situations where it may not be appropriate. Without proper medical supervision, meditation can potentially exacerbate existing mental health issues. Additionally, it has been observed that even individuals without a history of mental illness can experience negative reactions when practicing meditation. It is crucial to seek medical consultation and understand the unique needs of everyone. Just as a wild elephant needs a mahout to guide and control it, individuals with mental disturbances should not attempt meditation without proper supervision.
While meditation is a practice focused on training the mind to achieve mental stability and cultivate mindfulness, Reiki may offer an alternative path towards healing and self-discovery for those who struggle with meditation or find it contraindicated. Recognizing the differences between Reiki and meditation is vital to navigating the conundrum at hand.
Reiki is an energy-modulating technique that works on multiple levels, including the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of a person’s being. It balances and harmonises the body’s energy, promoting overall well-being. Unlike meditation, which requires stillness and focus, Reiki harnesses the energy within and around the body, providing a holistic approach that can benefit individuals who may not resonate with meditation practices.
While meditation holds undeniable benefits for many, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is important to acknowledge that meditation may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mental disturbances. Exploring alternative practices like Reiki can provide a valuable and effective path towards healing and inner peace. Ultimately, the key lies in embracing individualized approaches to wellness and fostering an environment where everyone can find the practices that best support their mental and emotional health.
Article by Reiki Master Supriya Nair
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Dr. Supriya Nair, IMD, PhD has been a Reiki and Kriya Yoga practitioner since 2008. A conduit between the scientific and spiritual worlds, Dr. Supriya has a profound fascination for the healing arts. Apart from holding the title of Usui Reiki Master Teacher, Dr. Supriya is a certified Health Coach and proficient in various integrative medicine modalities. She is also the author of "Train Your Brain to Unchain Your Pain."
To get in touch with Dr. Supriya, you can reach out via email at suprianair@gmail.com or connect with her on Facebook at facebook.com/supriyanair111 and on Instagram at instagram.com/proconscious.cafe.
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