Who Meditation

I can’t remember where I learned this little technique. I haven’t done the Who Meditation in awhile until I started the practice up recently. Once upon an age, back in my late twenties when I was a more robust and dedicated meditator - then I meet my future Wife and sex became more important than meditation so I fell out of it for a while - I’d do the Who Meditation each morning.

It feels a little silly at first but like all things once you get over the self-consciousness of the practice it becomes less silly - it never really loses the silly factor though. So, what you’ll need is (1) a mirror and (2) you. You can do this sitting down, standing up or lying down, suppose it doesn’t really matter. The guide being what feels most comfortable to you. I do it standing so –

Stand in front of the mirror, maybe two-three feet away, very close in any event. Then look right into your eyes - straight down the pipes - and softly say aloud “Who.” I tend to sing it like a mantra so it comes out “Whoooooooooooo-etc.” I like how the word “Who” vibrates, feels more alive. I’ve always spoken the word “Who” but suppose you could do it silently, not really sure about that one. Say or sing the word “Who” ten times or twenty or thirty but do it in a rhythm, five sets of ten, two sets of twenty whatever works. Then rinse and repeat. Again, configure it in whatever way works best for you.

The basic principle is asking the question “Who Am I” but this meditation does it in a very personal and intimate way, not so conceptual and heady, kinda gets to the marrow and helps you engage with your authentic self. Anyway thought I’d pass this along as I’ve been doing it again. As always the trick is commitment.

March 12 2007 12:27:01 PM EDT