I have a question about meditation. I do meditation for quieting and to go into the silence and find it interesting (can't find a better description) but I notice many of you folks seem to get a benefit from meditating on words. I've tried that; when I do I usually get a negative response, sort of "ya sure, I believe that... NOT" from myself. Feeling seems to be what my subconscious/inner self responds to. Am I doing something wrong or am I just oriented differently? Do you just repeat the words or is there some feeling or imagining with it?

Hi Mark! I think that the ultimate goal for meditation is to still and empty the mind and go to that inner quiet space. So many of us have trouble getting there, so words provide a helpful distractions to achieve that goal. I know I have trouble just being quiet so a guided meditation, or focus on something to keep my concious mind occupied helps me. If you can get to that still inner space, then you really are achieving a lot. you "got it goin' on"!

Mostly - I think - the words are to stimulate imagery - the subconcious mind realates to symbols and images - words are used to bring up images. In my opinion, words are repeated more for the toning effect - tibetan or gregoorian chant, etc - the toning creates a vibration which is very healing and occupies the concious mind. Chanting, repeating, visualizing are all ways to occupy the senses and hold focus.

It's all really about whatever works for you.