Brahma Kumaris meditation: Stop, observe and steer

By Manjula Philips

Meditation has been well-known since ancient times as a form of building and strengthening the inner resources of the mind. The Brahma Kumaris is a network of organisations in over 100 countries which teaches a practical method of meditation assisting people to develop inner strengths and values. 

MS. Maureen Chen is a native of Australia and joined the organisation in 1977. She  has been teaching meditation for almost 50 years conducting retreats and lectures in over 50 countries. She has visited Sri Lanka on several occasions, and the Daily Mirror had the opportunity to  interview  her on during her last visit.

Q How do you define meditation? 

The meditation we practice at the Brahma Kumaris is a creative form of meditation. We are not trying to stop our thoughts and we are learning how to think positively, constructively, so that we can really decide how we are going to live in any moment rather than just reacting to what happens around us. We really construct our creativity. Some people think the mind is a big problem. It is the most precious thing we have and if we are going to look after it carefully it can be dimplier and easier. To cultivate the soul with positive thoughts is meditation.

Q What are the main benefits of  meditation? 

Relaxation. But it is more than that. It is tuning the mind to work effectively and efficiency. There is a feeling of lightness because we do not worry about too much about anything when we meditate.

QWhat are the basic tips for beginners?

Check and change. Check the thoughts and, if they are not positive, change them. The other is SOS. It is Stop,Observe and Steer.and be a detached observer of life.

QIs meditation  good for everyone? Even for those who suffer from mental illnesses?

Yes. It’s good for everyone. But if you’re under medication for some mental illness you have to talk with your doctor and he has to decide that.

Q How can one incorporate meditation in to daily life? 

Meditation is awareness. That is why you have to be a detached observer.

QWhat are the challenges one faces when starting meditation? 

We have to be realistic. It takes time to change our character.

QWhat are the basic steps of meditation?

Relax, watch our breath, thinking who am I, thinking that I am peace, recognising myself as love,  happiness and as a strength.

QHow long should one meditate for?

One can start 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes in the evening. Then build it for half an hour.

QHow does one know thatone is meditating correctly?

Mainly by the results. And lightness if he or she is more humane and more harmony with other people. When we are in harmony with ourselves we are easily in harmony with others as well. 

QWhat if one cannot stop mind wandering?

When we try to stop the mind it is so difficult. It starts to wander. We have guided meditation. You can listen to someone speaking, at Brahma Kumaris we have those available for people and that is really easy for people.

All courses at Brahma Kumaris are offered free of charge and you can visit www.brahmakumaris.org for further details.