‘Sitting for the delight of sitting.’ Clive Sheridan
Meditation is the original yoga. In fact, meditation is not something we do; it arises spontaneously and is received.
Today, yoga’s ethics, together with its physical and breathing practices, prepare us for meditation.
In daily life, the practical benefits of meditation include an ability to remain centred in varying circumstances, an increase in contentment, resilience, creativity, harmonious relationships and our felt connection with life in general. These benefits have a ripple effect by supporting a positive presence and action in the world.
Brain structures can change after only eight weeks of regular meditation practice. Harvard neuroscientists noted positive change in areas of the brain associated with learning, memory, emotional regulation, sense of self and perspective. See more here and here.
On another level however, meditation provides a means of integration and simply being; of knowing the self and unveiling a natural, direct connection with the spiritual, mystical or universal. There is an understanding of the pure awareness or consciousness that we are, beyond what the mind can grasp, and beyond any technique or practice. This is the delight of sitting. Each individual discovers this spaciousness in their own way, together with how it infuses daily life.
In addition to personal or group sitting, a form of meditation can be experienced in a dyad or co-meditation, facilitated by a teacher. Carol also offers this exploration.
Dyads (co-meditation)
Many describe one-to-one dyads or co-meditation as a way to meet emerging experience freely, and to reconnect with their innermost wisdom or intuition. Unlike in solitary, silent meditation, co-meditation is subtly supported by a facilitator. There is no judgement, and no self-improvement or ‘fixing’ is required.
Some also think of dyads as a form of mentoring, in which each individual naturally discovers their own insights. Those with and without prior experience are welcome. To learn more, please email Carol.
“Thank you for the dyad. It was fantastic and revelatory … reassuring, too.” – AL
”I found the Dyad really transformative. Instead of plunging straight into a traditional meditation practice, I discovered the richness of staying with the sensations in the body. Having Carol objectively read back what I’d noticed was also incredibly powerful in helping me maintain focus and adding validity to the experience. The most powerful part of the practice for me was holding opposing sensations simultaneously within the body – I found this extremely liberating” – Vicki
Carol began sitting for meditation 23 years ago. She shares meditation from the yoga tradition whilst having personal experience of modern mindfulness methods, co-meditation, mindful self-compassion practices and silent retreats. She has a gentle approach, and the most appropriate route is discovered together with the individual or group.
Meditation is for those who simply feel called to try, often without knowing why. There is an inner curiosity. There is no desire for an outcome or gain.
To learn more or book a session, please email Carol.
Meditation as a standalone practice is not recommended in certain circumstances. If in doubt, please enquire.
Yoga practices that aid our transition towards meditation are restorative yoga, pranayama and yoga nidra.
A one-month audio course is offered below, suitable for newcomers and ‘refreshers’.
Photo: Cassy Paris (heart mudra meditation)
Into the Light – Foundations of Meditation
Are you keen to try meditation, but wonder how best to begin? Or perhaps you want to rekindle and strengthen your practice?
This step by step audio course – with Guidebook and suggested reflections – will enable you to create a sustainable meditation practice over a one-month period; one that anchors you in your essential steadiness, light and wellbeing, through the natural twists and turns of life. Carol guides you through clear, simple practices and offers small daytime habits to support your exploration.
Please see below for full course details.