Meditation
What comes to mind when thinking of a Buddhist Monk? If you thought of someone sitting cross-legged, meditating, that is no mistake. While all religions have some sort of meditation ingrained in their prayers, Buddhism has a strong emphasis on it. There are many different types of meditation for different purposes. The one most are familiar with is Vipassana meditation. One trains himself to be aware of the body’s actions, from the rhythm of the breathing, to the pulse of your heart. People who meditate like this sometimes repeat a word over and over while exhaling, such as ‘dho’. The key is said to be to become aware of what is happening, but not to dwell on it. To experience thoughts, but no latch onto them, to watch the drift by like clouds in the sky. The purpose of this is to clear the mind and to make the soul become stress-free and ‘still’.
Vipassana meditation retreats and classes are very common throughout Thailand, some a couple hours daily, other weeks at a time. Whether Buddhist or not, they are a perfect chance to experience the culture and prayer of a buddhist monk.
Vipassana meditation retreats and classes are very common throughout Thailand, some a couple hours daily, other weeks at a time. Whether Buddhist or not, they are a perfect chance to experience the culture and prayer of a buddhist monk.
Buddhist monks meditating
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Person meditating on rock
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