concentrate

Among its many values, concentration is a boundary. An invisible force-field that keeps us intimately tied to the present moment, free from the distractions of the past and the hypothetical future.

Without it, we are slaves to the whim of any interruption that comes our way.

What Is Concentration?

The roots of the word hint at its power for presence; con centrum, at the centre. Concentration is quite simply a means of being centred and fully in the now, aware of our surroundings, our bodies and minds exactly as they are.

It allows us to experience life with clarity and sharp focus, clearing the clouds of judgement and criticism that so easily arise from a distracted mind.

Thankfully, concentration can be cultivated. In fact, concentration is the very foundation of meditation, and the beating heart that drives many yoga practices.

The word ‘meditation’ tends to conjure up a rather specific and misguided image: a robed figure in perfect stillness, impeccably upright and effortlessly at ease.

It’s a common misconception that the sole purpose of meditation is to empty the mind of thoughts.

Let’s be honest – for many of us, it’s just not that easy. Whilst it is by no means impossible to enter a no-mind state, it tends to take many years of devoted dedication, and in truth, the practice and process of getting there are arguably even more important.

In studios and retreat centres across the world, what is commonly taught as ‘meditation’ is in fact concentration, a vital preliminary step.

Next time you feel yourself mindlessly reaching for your phone, pause. Take a breath. Question your motive.

Do those red bubbles require your focus right now, or is there something more fulfilling you could be doing with your precious time?

When we regularly practice concentration, especially in the seemingly small or insignificant moments, it becomes possible to observe the patterns of our minds that make up our habits.

In noticing distractions – whether tangible or abstract –greater gaps appear between them, creating a sense of spaciousness, ease and clarity.

Trust this process. It is as inevitable as the distractions from which it arises.
Namaste
xo