Meditation is funny

Björn Natthiko Lindeblad

Meditation, a practice often associated with tranquillity and serenity, may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of humour. But according to the late Björn Natthiko Lindeblad, a Swedish economist, lecturer, and Buddhist monk, humour plays a crucial role in meditation.

The Intersection of Humour and Meditation

Have you ever found your anxiety worsens when you attempt to meditate? Perhaps you find the whole thing exhausting and impossible?

Humour, like meditation, has the power to shift our perspective. It can break down barriers, making us more open and receptive. When we laugh, we’re in the moment, free from the burdens of the past or anxieties about the future. This is the essence of mindfulness.

Björn Natthiko Lindeblad often emphasized the importance of the right attitude towards meditation. He believed that approaching meditation with a sense of humour could make the practice more enjoyable and less stressful.

Why Humour Matters in Meditation

Meditation can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially for beginners. The pressure to quiet the mind and achieve a state of calm can be overwhelming. This is where humour comes in.

Humour can lighten the mood, making the practice feel less like a chore and more like a joyous activity. It can help us navigate the ups and downs of meditation with grace and ease.

When our brain wanders for the millionth time, and we feel like mindfulness is just never going to be for us, we’re taking it all too seriously.

Embracing Humour in Your Practice

So, how can you incorporate humour into your meditation practice? Start by smiling. A simple smile can instantly lift your mood and make your practice more enjoyable.

Remember, it’s okay to laugh at yourself. If your mind wanders off in the middle of your practice yet again, instead of getting frustrated, gently laugh it off and bring your focus back to your breath.

Conclusion

In the wise words of Björn Natthiko Lindeblad, “We can learn to take our thoughts less seriously, find a more sober way of relating to them. What do you know, there’s that ridiculous thought again. Oh well, I’m not going to hold onto that one.”

So, the next time you sit down to meditate, remember to bring along your sense of humour. It might just make your journey to mindfulness a little lighter and a lot more fun.