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This article is an excerpt from a handout used in our Healing Arts Seminiars and Bodyworks Program.
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Introduction to Meditation & Directed Intention in the Healing Arts, By Anthony Sell
Nearly every traditional Martial Art, from many cultures incorporate methods of focusing the mind, expanding awareness, changing perspective and disciplining the mind. Many magical qualities have been associated with this aspect of training, however the truth is that these are often very simple and effective training methods.
These methods can be grouped into two primary categories. In this course of study, both are important:
Active Meditation Active meditation methods include mindset training and self-affirmation (such as used by high performance athletes), creative exploration for developing one's intuition (such as we use in Carenza or shadow boxing and forms practice), prayer, and methods of directed intention, such as Chi Gung or Min Zin.
Passive Meditation Passive meditation, or Zazen, has a primary goal of ceasing thought and analyzation, to create a habit of spontaneous action and clear perception. A primary goal in passive meditation is to let go of inhibitions and habitual associations.
We should first understand the effect of directed intention. We have all had the experience of being in the same room with someone who was in a bad mood. Their demeanor colored every comment, creating a psychological reaction in those around them.
Those psychological associations foster negative emotions. These emotions stimulate the endocrine system, calling forth a release of chemicals in the body which may have an effect on their metabolism, muscle tension, posture, breathing rate, and self-esteem.
On the other hand, we have all had the experience of receiving a pat on the back by a teacher or mentor after doing a good job. This also has a very physical effect on our health. The important point is that our intention is communicated in very subtle ways, and can have a dramatic effect on our bodies.
The goal when helping someone else, is to make sure that during our contact, we are void of association, and keep foremost in our minds an air of compassion and sincere concern for their well-being.
For many, this is no easy feat. We have a lifetime of associations, likes and dislikes, assumptions and values that can color our perceptions, and affect the way others perceive us. This can sometimes interfere with the our attempts to help others, so disciplined practice is vital. That practice is called meditation.