Baseer Maroof, LCSW · Raleigh, NC · Adults 21+
Meditation
Meditation is resting your attention, often on the breath, and gently coming back each time the mind wanders. In contemplative traditions, the mind is like water: when it settles, it becomes clear.
The breath slows like a tide, the body softens and thoughts pass like clouds. Teachers call it coming home to the present moment.
A still body, a slow tide
Breath glows in and out like a tide. The heart slows and the mind settles.
Breathe in
Tap a number to light it up.
An artistic picture, not a medical image.
More ways to see it
Close in: eyes closed, breath slowing
Far out: one small person, one big sky
From above: lying still in a ring of petals
Try it now
Breathing & meditation timer
Pick a practice and a length, then press Start. Nothing is recorded.
Be careful if…
- Trauma or PTSD: short, eyes-open, body-based practice is often a better fit.
- History of psychosis, mania or severe dissociation: avoid long intensive retreats unless your care team agrees.
- Feeling anxious, low or unreal while you practise: shorten it, open your eyes or take a break.
Sources
All sources, linked6 references⌄
- Goyal M et al. Meditation programs for psychological stress and well-being: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Intern Med 2014;174(3):357–368. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24395196/
- Kuyken W et al. Efficacy of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in prevention of depressive relapse: an individual patient data meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry 2016;73(6):565–574. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27119968/
- Hoge EA et al. JAMA Psychiatry 2023;80(1):13–21. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36350591/
- Balban MY et al. Brief structured respiration practices enhance mood and reduce physiological arousal. Cell Reports Medicine 2023;4(1):100895. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36630953/
- Farias M et al. Adverse events in meditation practices and meditation-based therapies: a systematic review. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2020;142(5):374–393. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32820538/
- NCCIH. Meditation and mindfulness: effectiveness and safety. www.nccih.nih.gov/health/meditation-and-mindfulness-effectiveness-and-safety
Related on this site