May 14th

Relaxation

Relaxation
Is total peace.

When you relax completely, there is total silence. No thought enters the mind, no problems arise from the body, no memories grip the spirit. This overwhelming sense of tranquility is really all meditation is about. The neutral stillness of the mind renews the tired soul, and this is regeneration.Even if you don't follow a formal meditation program, it is good to sit quietly for a little while every day. This form of rest should be as regular as sleeping each day. If you can sit still and just relax completely, you are actually meditating. All the various forms of complicated techniques and visualization exist because people can't bring themselves to this very simple state of relaxation. Their minds are constantly racing, their bodies are out of balance, and the worries of the day weigh heavily upon them. They cannot let go, so they need a formal routine to follow. But if you can simply sit down and empty yourself, you will experience a wonderful silence and a deep, satisfying sense of peace.
One should try to return to a relaxed state on a regular and periodic basis. The simple reason for relaxation is that it renews us, purifies us, and leaves us with a profound feeling of serenity. It is not a ritual. It is not a religious obligation. It is a wonderful state away from problems. In it, we are poised in our natural state.

Personal Interpretation

Relaxation is necessary for the rejuvenation of the spirit. While many complicate the concept of meditation or insist that it is an obligatory component of spiritual practice, it is in truth the natural state in which we were made to exist. It is simple and requires little more than absence of activity of mind or body. This does not make it easy. We live in a fast-paced society and most of us have difficulty disconnecting from the world. We must make an effort to do so too, if we want to avoid dangerous levels of stress and maintain our sanity. We must live in the world. There is no denying that. But as we must live in it, so must we also retreat from it on occasion.