Could Meditation be better than Sleep?

When all else fails…Meditate

by Megan Faulkner

I’m sure we have all had those nights before an important event, lying awake sleepless, thinking of things to do, to then check off in the morning.  During one such evening recently, where reading provided no respite, I came back to the basic principles of meditation I had learnt.

I focused on the simple act of breathing slowly…in, and…out,  and after a few rounds found myself feeling sleepy, my consciousness shifted and because I was lying down I fell asleep.

This led me to ponder the question – ‘Can meditating be better than sleep?’ I have heard that some Buddhist Monks can go without sleep for days by practicing extended periods of meditation, with the result being a clearer and more efficient and effective mind.

The difference is that sleep is a state where the conscious mind is no longer active, the body rests and the senses no longer respond to external stimuli. The brain remains active but in a subconscious state. http://www.talkaboutsleep.com/sleep-disorders/archives/intro.htm. However, meditation is a state where consciousness is heightened through focusing attention to concentrate or consciously clear the mind of thought http://www.meditationsociety.com/what.html.   Meditation certainly doesn’t replace sleep for most of us but you will probably find that you feel refreshed after meditating like you do when you have a sleep.  Although practicing meditation in or before bed can bring you to a more relaxed state where you can go to sleep more easily, it’s primary function is to bring you to a higher state of consciousness so it is practiced in a seated position.

So the next time you are lying awake, or sleeplessly ruminating, try focusing on your breath. Allow each inhalation and exhalation to be come gradually longer technique that.  Try this lying down or seated by your bed and hopefully the result in sleep or at least a less busy mind.