Use the TAME meditation technique to keep yourself emotionally detached from ups and downs of the daily grind. This can feel like floating above the world. Don’t get divorced from reality, but don’t get drowned by it either.
This is third in a series of articles on the TAME meditation technique that I have described in my writing on this website. In order to understand this article better, it may be helpful to read the underlying mediation technique.
Applying TAME breathing technique
In my experience, when done well, it does feel a bit like floating above the world. As I have practiced TAME over many years, it has become increasing easy for me to revert to a meditational state during my non-meditation times. In such a wakeful state, I can continue my daily work as normal but also feel as though I am floating above my effort as well as the results that come out. This is a heady feeling that combines both detachment from problems as well as unconditional happiness. It is made specially wonderful as I realise the level of control it gives me over my mind — to be able to keep myself happy. This does not, in any way, reduce my effectiveness at work. In fact, it does the opposite. By clearing my mind of disturbances and putting it a peace, it keeps me engaged and fulfilled.
How can one do it?
I would break this down into 3 phases.
Phase 1: Understand and practice the TAME meditation technique.
This practice needs to be regular (ideally around 30 minutes daily). After some time, it becomes a sort of a reflex action for the mind to shelter itself behind the TAME technique during non-meditation times when beset with problems. The mind remains fully engaged and the outside world may not notice much difference. But I am relaxed and happy wishing even in the face of difficult situations.
Phase 2: Consciously start practicing TAME outside of meditation times
When not doing anything important, resist the option of pulling out that smartphone and try to meditatively breathe using the TAME technique. In this way, one can extend the reach of TAME to cover more and more of the day.
Phase 3: Practice, practice, practice
At its best, TAME becomes a very delicate and subtle operation that also stills the mind with consciousness focused on the mind’s eye. Because it is subtle, it can be disrupted with a shift in attention. The tendency of the mind to keep getting distracted can be frustrating. Each time, a person needs to get the mind back and focused. Patience in the face of distractions is important.
Recommended Reading
The Advanced Meditation Exercise (TAME): This meditation technique is an incredibly powerful way to keep the mind peaceful. It is prescribed in Bhagwad Gita, the primary book of Indian spiritual heritage. It derives its power by activating three key things in us: detachment, stillness, and transformation.
Why TAME meditation appears to work better than other techniques: TAME meditation appears to be more effective than other meditation techniques because it activates three essential elements of meditation: detachment, transformation, and stillness. Meditation needs all three.
Use Meditation to counter depression and stress: Modern approaches towards depression and stress are not working as they do not understand the mind that creates them. It’s time to rethink our approach.
TAME Meditation can block out pain: TAME meditation technique can block out pain. This works best for pain that is constant and predictable. But it needs practice. And, Modern Science needs to pay attention.
