Although Meditative-Arts, Meditation, and Yoga are successfully applied as therapies, being beneficial for both the body and the mind – this is not their essential purpose. On the contrary, spiritual practice is meant to enhance our connection with a higher or greater power, as we surrender and merge into the realization of our true nature.

MEDITATIVE-ARTS

When we create meditatively, the artist’s state of mind is of the utmost importance, which is unlike a normal art class where the focus is the masterpiece created, or perhaps the emotions and ideas conveyed by the artist. In Meditative-Arts, we allow creativity to be expressed through us without the imposition of our personal thoughts and concepts. “I create” becomes a passive state, making us available to the ultimate inspiration. This is not a semantic distinction, but an entirely differentiating attitude towards art.

MEDITATIVE PRACTICE – A CORRECTIVE ACTION

Spiritual progress is our ultimate goal, and regular meditation sessions are its base. Dedicated and continuous practice helps us develop and sustain: strong willpower, concentration, patience, and peace of mind. When we sit in meditation, we are not “doing” this in an active way, rather we are allowing ourselves to “un-do” – and let go of the habitual mind behavior we have become so accustomed to. Meditation shows us how to remain attentive and present, and is a “passive action” that does not disturb the balanced/normal state of mind we have long forgotten. We return to simplicity in the space where things have become so complicated. It is a time for learning to reorient ourselves with being receptive and surrender; and if we trust this process, then that magic can happen.

Correct reasons to create / correct reasons to meditate – If one can sit and meditate for hours or days at a stretch and be content with this alone, the thrust to create may or may not arise, but if it does, it could be due to a few different reasons. ‘Good reasons’ are healthy and happy instincts to make art; they are not born from the need to process old traumas and difficulties, which would be more like therapy. “Good reasons” respond directly to the call to join and play in the divine masterpiece.

YOGA

As meditative-artists, we should also combine our practice with some form of body-energy work, such as Yoga, Tai Chi, Quigong, etc., which cultivates an energetic balance, allowing us to operate purely and in tune. The natural flow of vital energy (- prana or chi) throughout our form makes us healthy and peaceful via flexibility, stamina, and strength building. Generally speaking, any type of physical-energetic work would be beneficial and is of great importance to those who wish to grow spiritually. The focus should be on working holistically and on an exegetical level that facilitates the development of a deep connection with our bodies. Body-energy supports our Meditative-Art practice and helps us derive a way to enlightenment.

Using meditation or yoga therapeutically is advantageous for healing many mind and body disorders, but is not the highest purpose of these practices, and can only prepare human beings for our ultimate goals. Let us not get confused with the essence of their original nature, as tools to evolve spiritually.