How to Use Meditation in Tibetan Medicine

Tibetan medicine defines illness as the effect of ignorance on the mind, body and sprit. Ignorance causes us to misperceive the world in a way that makes us prone to health problems and sickness. Meditation is widely used in Tibetan medicine to focus and ease the mind, which can help if you're suffering from stress-related illnesses. Meditation is said to also improve memory as well as reduce mental fatigue.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Use Meditation In Tibetan Medicine

1. Find a Tibetan medical doctor through the Tibet.com Web site (see Resources below).
2. Call 1 or more of the doctors to schedule a consultation. Consultations are generally inexpensive and don't necessarily imply you intend to begin treatment with that doctor.
3. Ask about meditation and be up-front about your goals and expectations. Tibetan doctors are well versed in Tibetan-style meditation. Describe your availability in terms of time. This will help the doctor formulate a meditation plan for you.
4. Follow the suggestions offered by the doctor. Meditation takes time and practice.
5. Eliminate negative thinking during meditation. Positive thinking is thought to give you energy, assertiveness and confidence.
6. Create a positive goal that is within reach. Goal-setting helps many people reach their optimal meditative performance.
7. Visit Amazon.com and select a meditation audio CD to purchase (see Resources below). Audio CDs can help clear your mind and give you directions to focus and guide your meditation session.
8. Learn more about how to use meditation in Tibetan medicine at the Dharma Haven Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Do not be discouraged if you find it difficult to meditate at first. Meditation can be difficult for many Westerners. We are so accustomed to noise, both externally and internally, that it can take some people several tries before they are able to clear their minds.
• Develop a routine. It is much easier to use peaceful quiet time for yourself when make it part of your everyday activity. Choose a time of day and stick with it.
• Tibetan-style meditation is said to help with psychological disorders. However, for serious depression, consult a professional psychologist or psychiatrist.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners are licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider and keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.