Quietening our mind during Meditation

Question: How do we quiet our mind during meditation?

Shaykh AI:

B’ism Allah… Alhamdulillah, from the teachings of Mawlana Shaykh Nurjan Mirahmadi (QS), the process of quieting the mind during meditation is a gradual journey that requires patience and practice. The first step is to focus on the ears, as they are the gateway to the heart. The mind can be tamed by training the ears to find a sense of peace through sound meditation.

In the world of medicine, sound meditation is recommended to reduce hypertension and calm the mind. By listening to soothing sounds and synchronizing breathing with the rhythm, one can learn to relax and meditate. This practice helps in bringing illumination into the heart, allowing the individual to enter a world of light and peace.

During meditation, it’s important to play salawats and Qur’an recitations at a volume that drowns out distracting thoughts. This allows the soul to enter into the sound and vibration of the recitations, learning at the level of the soul rather than just the mind.

To quiet the mind, it’s essential to focus on breathing, feeling the ocean of light, and entering the associations of the divine lovers. This helps in countering negative energies and developing the light of the soul. The energy of breath becomes the food of the soul, sustaining and nurturing it.

In terms of diet, it’s recommended to eat less before meditation and be mindful of the energy of the food consumed. Avoiding heavy meals before meditation can help in maintaining focus and clarity during the practice.

Furthermore, the discomfort of the ego can be fought by not meditating in comfort. Uncomfortable positions during meditation help in cutting down desires and hawa (worldly inclinations), allowing for a deeper connection during the practice.

In summary, the process of quieting the mind during meditation involves sound meditation, focusing on breathing, and entering the world of light and divine associations. It’s a journey of training the ears, nurturing the soul, and maintaining a mindful diet to support the practice.