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Well, my dojo has the class meditate before we start and after we're done. I guess it's important to meditate and keep a clear mind because it helps me organize my thoughts for that little bit of time.

Well, my meditation practices actually predate my Martial Arts studies; that being said, I should note that I do not practice nearly enough. One of the most important aspects of meditation is that it will, after a period of time, instill in the practitioner an amazing ability to focus. This increased focus allows for a more indepth, immediate understanding of the material being as you are more ingaged in the learning process as it unfolds and not just relying on what you think was said or demonstrated when you were off in "la la land." Through meditation, you can gain clarity and understanding.

Meditation is a time for reflection. It allows one to really delve into the higher lessons to be learned when you are able to sit and think about something you've just learned, and by putting it into context in your own mind, I feel, it will further help you gain an understanding of what it is that you are learning. This is especially true for me and my study of Kenpo. So many times, we will dive into a nuanced concept during a workout session and it isn't until later that I go, "Oh man, now I get it." It's then that I am able to start putting that concept to use in other situations. By setting aside a specific time, say right after your work out, to sit an meditatively reflect on what you've just learned, you gain a better chance of not only remembering what you learned quicker, but you may also begin to connect all of the dots sooner as well.

Meditationf for only minutes a day over a period of time has benefitted many people by relieving stress. And, an already relaxed mind has a better chance of remaining calm in a difficult situation then a mind that is clouded by stress, anxiety and frustration. A clear head will keep you alert and more likely will allow you to respond properly to a sudden upset of any sort...be it a pop quiz in chem class or an attack on the street.

There are SOOO many different benefits of meditation. Like I said, I don't do it enough, at all. But, these are some of them more important reason I think I should incorporate the practice back into my daily ritual again. What do you all think?

What are some of the other reason you could think of to meditate more often?