Often prayer and meditation to the layman are misinterpreted to be synonymous. But they are two distinct practices; both produce better health in different ways.
What is the definition of Meditation? To engage in contemplation or reflection, It’s about becoming self-aware and present at the moment with a healthy sense of perspective. It’s a practice of recognizing your thoughts and feelings and observe them without judgment. It’s not about becoming a different person or better person.
Meditation is often perceived as just sitting quietly in silence. Yes, that can be included in meditation, but meditation is to focus on the present rather than dwell on the past or worry about the future. Its a practice to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state.
Meditation helps me focus, giving me time to think and provide clarity to what I am doing and have to do. The best time for me to meditate is in the morning. I start the day early with a light workout of stretching and weight lifting along with a quiet time of reflection on what I am learning.
There is no right way of meditating. The Eastern cultures have developed meditative techniques that are proven to provide a mental state of peace and relief from stress. Three of the most common meditation types are Yoga, Mantra, and Mindfulness Meditation. Top Three Meditation Techniques http://www.hyptalk.com/blog/top-3-meditation-techniques/
What is the definition of prayer? A solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God.
As a Christian, prayer is an important part of my life. Prayer to me is communication of the human soul with God who created the soul. Prayer is the way as a believer in Jesus Christ I can fellowship with God and share my emotions, desires, and with thanksgiving.
Prayer can be audible or silent, private or public, formal or informal. Prayer is a two communication between you and God. Part of prayer is the ability to listen and hear what you feel God is saying to you.
Prayer requires faith and taking a risk on what is not totally understood and is often considered a mystery. However, what makes prayer easy for me is when I look at creation and its complexity, it gives me confidence there is a God worthy of prayer.
It’s faith in God and my relationship with Jesus Christ that makes prayer so powerful. It’s a faith-based decision and relationship, an eternal, life-changing decision. For more detail on prayer: What is Prayer? https://www.gotquestions.org/what-is-prayer.html
Prayer deepens a person’s faith in God. It releases anxiety and provides a connection with God our Creator. Prayer brings us toward forgiveness and repentance that help improve our relationships. Prayer helps provide guidance and wisdom with the right mindset of growth and change. Prayer includes an attitude of gratefulness.
Meditation and prayer both provide opportunities to increase our mental and spiritual health. A healthy spirit and mind provide for an enjoyable life.
How does prayer play a role in your life? Do you meditate? If so what methods are most effective for you?