Renowned meditation teacher Ajahn Brahm offered valuable guidance on how to meditate even when feeling unwell. While battling a cold, Brahm exemplified his teaching by demonstrating that meditation can be particularly beneficial during sickness. He introduced the concept of “sneezing meditation,” encouraging attendees to focus on the body and mind rather than succumbing to discomfort.
A personal journey of healing
Brahm recounted a personal experience from his university days when he felt miserable with the flu. After finally receiving a long-awaited hi-fi system and playing his first vinyl record by Jimi Hendrix, he found that his cold disappeared. This transformative moment illustrated the power of distraction and joy in alleviating physical ailments.
He emphasised that, rather than fighting sickness, meditation allows people to accept their current state, promoting a kinder, more compassionate approach to oneself. By redirecting focus away from discomfort, one can foster relaxation and ease tension, allowing the body’s natural healing energies to flourish.
Combination of mindfulness and compassion
Throughout the talk, Brahm highlighted the essential elements of effective meditation: mindfulness and kindness. By combining these qualities, practitioners can deepen their awareness of both body and mind. This approach not only facilitates relaxation but also nurtures a compassionate relationship with one’s experiences, promoting healing and tranquility.
Brahm explained that true meditation isn’t just about achieving a specific outcome but about nurturing the process itself. Practicing mindfulness and kindness together allows for a profound inner experience where the mind can explore feelings of discomfort and illness with gentleness.
Real-life impact of meditation
Brahm shared an anecdote from a trip to Canberra, where he felt increasingly unwell as the day progressed. Just before giving a talk, he decided to lead a half-hour meditation session instead. Participants were thrilled, and after the meditation, Brahm noticed that his cold had vanished, enabling him to deliver an engaging talk without interruptions.
His experience underlines the practical benefits of meditation in overcoming physical ailments. Brahm encourages anyone feeling unwell to continue their meditation practice, suggesting that even those in dire health can find solace and healing through mindfulness.
Transformative experience
For those interested in exploring the profound benefits of meditation, Ajahn Brahm’s teachings offer invaluable insights. His approach encourages people to practice mindfulness and compassion, fostering a deeper connection with themselves and their experiences.
Whether you are feeling under the weather or simply looking to enhance your meditation practice, Ajahn Brahm invites everyone to embrace the healing power of meditation. Join him for a session and discover how meditation can transform your life, even in times of discomfort. This dhamma talk is available on https://youtu.be/Z3uzdWEM9QU
Ajahn Brahm in Sri Lanka
Ajahn Brahm will visit Sri Lanka in May 2025, bringing his wisdom and humour to a wider audience. He will deliver a public sermon at the BMICH on May 18. This is a rare opportunity to experience his teachings first hand and deepen your meditation practice under his guidance.
