Reflections of a Still Mind

“The still waters of a lake reflect the beauty all around it. When the mind is still, the beauty of the self is reflected in it.” - B.K.S. Iyengar

You often hear that meditation is the key to spiritual growth. But, have you ever wondered why? What is the link between meditation and spirituality? What is the point of spending time sitting still with your eyes closed, simply breathing in and out? Especially when you could be doing something more productive like exercising or checking emails. This week’s quote helps to illustrate the link between mind and spirit, by pointing out that, when the mind is still, it reflects the beauty of the self.

Think of meditation as your opportunity to still the waters of your mind. Don’t worry about what the point is, or that perhaps this is all a waste of time, because those are both just thoughts, just more waves in the waters of your mind. Notice your thoughts as they come and go but do not get caught up in them. Identify instead with the ever present witness, the awareness in the background of your mind that notices your thoughts taking place. That calm, silent witness between waves of thought is your true self. Simply breathe and let the mind be still. Just like a lake, when the mind is still, it becomes a mirror- capable of reflecting the beauty of existence, both within and without.