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Meditation Career Guide
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Meditation is an all-encompassing method of self-discovery and mental transformation. Through the use of certain chants, mantras, visualizations, and breathing techniques amongst many others, meditation creates stillness and concentrates one's awareness in the mind. On the surface, it is a relaxation method used to cultivate inner peace and quiet the external world of material, expectation and stress. It can be used by anyone, even those with limited cognitive ability, and is often used to increase creativity, promote self-awareness and help people live more spiritually oriented lives. In its deeper levels, many regard mediation as one of the most important practices on the road to enlightenment and spiritual liberation.
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The art of meditation has been around since ancient times and has roots in many Eastern philosophical and spiritual disciplines. As a way to explore the inner (rather than external/material world) world of existence, mediation allows people to realize the supreme consciousness of creation when practiced with diligence. Gautama Buddha was an earlier proponent of meditation and spread it throughout Asia to be incorporated into other meditative techniques. In the West, it did not garner significant attention until the 1960s and 1970s, when disillusionment forced many Westerners to strive for understanding that went beyond the events of the time. It is now practiced by many people all around the world, even in fitness centers, hospitals, wellness centers and schools.
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Traditionally, meditation was a very personal practice; yet, in modern society there are plenty of group classes being taught every day. A meditation instructor teaches students how to properly meditate. Students often sit in front of the instructor in a large, open space, usually on some kind of mat or pillow to be comfortable. They are shown how to position themselves and maintain the correct posture for meditation and are asked to focus on an object while breathing gently in and out. Some practitioners will emphasize the repetition of a mantra to create more focus, while others will allow students to use their own chosen style of focusing. They are taught how to remain passive about thoughts that may appear and to let them pass if necessary. Meditation classes often last six weeks or more, with clients encouraged to practice on their own in between meetings.
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- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Asthma
- Atrial Flutter
- Chronic pain
- COPD
- Depression
- Emphysema
- Endometriosis
- Epilepsy
- Fatigue
- Fibromyalgia
- Heart disease
- Hot flashes
- Hypertension
- Infertility
- Insomnia
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Lupus
- PMS
- Psoriasis
- Stress
- Tension headaches
- Ulcers
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- Decreases the negative effects of the aging process.
- Improves airflow and respiratory health.
- Improves concentration.
- Increases alertness.
- Increases blood flow throughout the body.
- Increases creativity and intelligence.
- Increases learning ability and memory.
- Increases sense of emotional and physical balance.
- Lowers heart rate and blood pressure.
- Prevents or controls chronic pain.
- Reduces anxiety and low-self esteem.
- Reduces effects of negative habits.
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Side-Effects/Contra-Indications:
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- Meditation should not be used in replace of a physician's treatment.
- Repressed memories can manifest that results in feelings of rejection or depression.
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Meditation is taught in many settings by spiritual masters and teachers, certified meditation instructors, yoga teachers, alternative health practitioners, therapists and even physical fitness instructors. It may also be self-taught. Those who want to be certified in meditation are expected to learn meditation theory, anatomy/physiology, Zen theory, relaxation techniques, centering techniques and visualization just to name just a few. Students must complete at least 150 hours or coursework and often work under the guidance of a mentor.
Degree/License offered: Certified Meditation Instructor
Length of study: 9 days-3 months, depending on location and emphasis of school
Cost/Financial Aid: Students may pay $350-$1400 for complete meditation training and certification. Those with previous training or experience in meditation can receive just certification for as low as $125.
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There has been much research conducted on the benefits of meditation, within many subjects and medical conditions. Scientists continue to investigate meditation and its benefits.
- Researchers in India have studied the effect of Sahaja yoga meditation on EEG changes and seizure control in epilepsy patients. Thirty-two patients were divided into three groups and evaluated for six months. The group that practiced meditation in those six months experienced a 62% decrease in seizure activity just over the first three months. more info
- A researcher from the University Of Massachusetts Medical School conducted a study of employees from a high-tech firm in Madison, Wisconsin. During an 8-week program, employees were asked to learn meditation; their brains were scanned three times throughout the study. Results showed that there was a large shift in brain wave activity from the rear to the left frontal lobe, an area of the brain associated with calm and peace. more info
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Practitioner Training & Licensure:
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Meditation instructors do not currently follow a recognized licensure process, but many spiritual, religious and professional organizations have specific requirements that instructors must meet before being certified and credentialed. Formal certification usually lasts three years, and requires continued study in meditation techniques.
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Average Salary/Hourly Rate:
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Certified Meditation Instructors can work in almost any location. They often lead meditation classes and can provide one-on-one instruction or consultation for those who need it. They may work in wellness centers, rehab centers, psychologist offices and through corporate programs. Their standard payment ranges from $35-$150/hour, depending on geographical area of practice and professional expertise. Yearly salaries range from $41,000-$48,000.
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