Meditation quiets the chattering mind

 "Meditation is a primary practice of Buddhism, but not a religious practice," said Nancy James. James, a Seagrove resident and one of the initiators of the Emerald Coast Meditation Society, characterized meditation as a discipline that anyone, regardless of religious belief or lack thereof, can utilize.

"There is no dogma involved," said James.

On Jan. 13, more than 150 people turned out to see for themselves at the Coastal Branch Library. From that moment on, the practice of large and small group meditation as a source of collective energy has attracted a growing and intensely interested following by a largely local crowd in Walton County.

On that date, Teijo Munnich, a Zen priest from a temple near Ashville, N.C., gave a presentation based on a well-known parable. She titled it "How to taste a strawberry while being pursued by a tiger." The kernel of wisdom presented in the parable suggests that the ability to live "in the moment" despite trying circumstances is entirely within one's control. All that is required is the practice of meditation. And practice is the necessary component.

"Like any discipline, it takes practice," said James. A Zen Buddhist, she was involved in the development of the Minnesota Zen Center more than three decades ago. The center is still a going concern.

The idea of bringing group meditation to Walton County grew out of a friendship between James and Mary Konovsky, who discovered their mutual interest online.

"We started with a small group, and the interest has just exploded with Teijo's presentation here," said James.

Happiness, peace of mind, the ability to concentrate, to be more spontaneous or creative and an overall composure or equanimity in the face of life's many daily irritations and distractions are promised to those who practice meditation.

In addition to the mental health aspect, proponents of meditation claim many physical health benefits, as well. Chief among these is reduced stress, diminishing the probability of heart disease.

Like religious belief, neither age nor health status disqualifies an individual from learning to meditate. In fact, relief from chronic pain is touted by some as a potential benefit.

"You can read about it, but to really understand it, you must engage in the practice," said James.

Typically, the 90 minute meetings of the Emerald Coast Meditation Society begin with a half hour of instruction in the process and practice of meditation by James. The instruction is followed by a group meditation. Sometimes, a speaker is featured. A past speaker for the group was Phillip Ellis, of One Hand Clapping, who led a guided meditation. Sometimes group meditations are focused on an issue, such as world peace.

All that's required to participate in the group that James describes as friendly and informal is an open mind. Those interested in attending a meeting are advised to wear comfortable clothing and to bring a cushion, if desired.

Participation in the Emerald Coast Meditation Society is free of charge. Currently meeting bimonthly at the Christ the King Episcopal Church on County Road 393 North, north of U.S. Highway 98 in Santa Rosa Beach, the group is also facilitating small group meditation in private homes. Past meetings have been held at 6:30-8 p.m. on Thursday evenings. For information on future plans of the group, contact m.konovsky@mchsi.com. The next meeting of the Emerald Coast Meditation Society is on May 14.