Context Matters

Before exploring the concept and strategy that is called “meditation” it’s supportive to see how consciousness evolves through the intersubjective and objective domains of Reality.

We can make it simple by refering to these collective stages as pre-modern, modern, post-modern and integral.

The concept and strategies of “meditation” will be unique and different at each of these collective paradigms.

And we can see and learn that the concept and strategy of “meditaiton” evolves as the individual, the collective, and now tecnology advances.

Pre-Modern "Meditation"

Theravada

The oldest form of Buddhism is often referred to as Theravada Buddhism. Theravada is one of the major branches of Buddhism and is considered to be the most conservative and closest to the original teachings of the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama.

Theravada Buddhism originated in ancient India and is sometimes called “Hinayana,” which translates to “Small Vehicle” in comparison to Mahayana Buddhism, which is referred to as the “Great Vehicle.”

Theravada practitioners emphasize the individual’s path to enlightenment and liberation, aiming to become an arhat—a perfected being who has achieved enlightenment and is free from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).

Meditation is a central practice in Theravada Buddhism.

Mindfulness meditation, Vipassana, and other meditation techniques are used to develop insight into the nature of reality and to cultivate wisdom.

Mahayana

After Theravada Buddhism, the next major form of Buddhism is Mahayana Buddhism. Mahayana Buddhism emerged several centuries after the time of the historical Buddha and represents a more expansive and inclusive approach to the teachings.

While Theravada Buddhism emphasizes individual liberation and the path of the arhat, Mahayana Buddhism focuses on the liberation of all sentient beings and the aspiration to become a bodhisattva—a being who works for the enlightenment of all beings before attaining their own.

While both traditions share the goal of achieving insight, wisdom, and liberation, they often approach meditation in distinct ways based on their philosophical perspectives and intended outcomes.

Here are some differences in meditation practices between Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism:

Emphasis on Compassion and Bodhisattva Ideal (Mahayana): Mahayana meditation practices often place a greater emphasis on cultivating compassion and the bodhisattva ideal—the aspiration to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all beings. Meditations that focus on generating loving-kindness, compassion, and empathetic joy are common in Mahayana traditions.
Visualization Practices (Mahayana): Some Mahayana traditions, such as Tibetan Buddhism, emphasize elaborate visualization practices. These practices involve imagining and visualizing specific deities, landscapes, and symbolic elements as a means to develop concentration, insight, and spiritual qualities.
Zen Meditation (Mahayana): Zen Buddhism, a branch of Mahayana, is known for its unique approach to meditation. Zen meditation (zazen) emphasizes sitting meditation, often with minimal instruction and direct pointing to the nature of mind. Koans (paradoxical questions or statements) are used as tools to provoke insight and break through conceptual thinking.
Vipassana and Mindfulness (Theravada): Theravada Buddhism places a strong emphasis on Vipassana meditation, which involves developing insight into the nature of reality through mindful awareness of bodily sensations, thoughts, and feelings. Mindfulness of breath, body, and mental states is a core practice in Theravada meditation.
Concentration Practices (Both): Both Mahayana and Theravada traditions include concentration practices to develop focus and stability of mind. However, the specific techniques and instructions may differ. For example, Theravada may emphasize mindfulness of breath or other bodily sensations, while Mahayana traditions might use visualization or mantra repetition.
Goal-Oriented Differences: While both traditions seek liberation and enlightenment, the Mahayana approach is often more expansive, aiming for the enlightenment of all sentient beings (bodhisattva ideal), whereas Theravada typically focuses on individual liberation (becoming an arhat).
Scriptural Emphasis (Mahayana): Mahayana traditions draw inspiration from a broader range of scriptures, including Mahayana sutras that contain teachings on various meditation methods, compassion practices, and the nature of reality.

"Meditation" In Modernity

The transition from pre-modern contemplative practices to the context, definitions, and strategies of what we now understand as meditation during the Renaissance involved several key changes. These changes were influenced by shifts in philosophical, cultural, and religious perspectives during the Renaissance period. While the terminology and approaches might not have perfectly aligned with modern meditation practices, there were notable shifts that contributed to the evolution of meditation-related ideas during this time:

Humanism and Individualism: The Renaissance emphasized humanism and the value of the individual. This shift in focus contributed to a greater interest in personal exploration, self-discovery, and self-improvement. This encouraged individuals to engage in practices that fostered self-awareness and inner development.
Integration of Ancient Philosophies: Renaissance scholars and thinkers were deeply influenced by the revival of ancient Greek and Roman philosophies, including Neoplatonism, Stoicism, and Hermeticism. These philosophical systems often contained elements of introspection, self-contemplation, and the pursuit of higher knowledge.
Mystical and Spiritual Exploration: Some Renaissance figures were drawn to mystical and spiritual experiences, seeking direct encounters with the divine or a deeper understanding of the nature of reality. This often involved practices that could be considered contemplative, involving deep inner reflection and connection with the divine.
Hermetic and Alchemical Traditions: The Hermetic and alchemical traditions of the Renaissance included practices aimed at achieving spiritual transformation and enlightenment. These practices often involved meditation-like techniques that focused on inner states and symbolic imagery.
Emphasis on Inner Illumination: Many Renaissance thinkers emphasized the concept of inner illumination, where the individual seeks to gain insights and understanding through introspection, contemplation, and meditation-like practices.
Literary and Artistic Expression: Renaissance art and literature often reflected themes of introspection and the human experience. Writers and artists explored the inner workings of the human mind, emotions, and spirituality, contributing to a cultural atmosphere of introspection.
Theological and Mystical Writings: Theological and mystical writings from figures like Meister Eckhart, Johannes Tauler, and Thomas à Kempis contained ideas about spiritual development, inner prayer, and the union of the soul with the divine.

During the Renaissance, a period of significant cultural and intellectual growth in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century, there were individuals who promoted and engaged in contemplative practices that bear similarities to meditation.

While the term “meditation” as it’s understood today might not have been used in the same way, there were figures who advocated for introspection, self-reflection, and the pursuit of inner knowledge. Here are a few notable individuals who were associated with promoting contemplative practices during the Renaissance:

Marsilio Ficino (1433–1499): Ficino was an Italian philosopher, scholar, and priest who played a prominent role in the Florentine Renaissance. He was heavily influenced by Neoplatonism and translated the works of Plato and other ancient philosophers. Ficino advocated for a spiritual and contemplative approach to life, emphasizing the importance of inner illumination and self-knowledge.
Giovanni Pico della Mirandola (1463–1494): Pico was an Italian philosopher and humanist who is known for his work “Oration on the Dignity of Man.” He emphasized the idea that human beings have the potential to ascend to higher levels of knowledge and understanding through contemplation and intellectual exploration.
Giordano Bruno (1548–1600): Bruno was an Italian philosopher, cosmologist, and hermeticist who explored mystical and esoteric ideas. He advocated for a more expansive view of the universe and the interconnectedness of all things. Bruno’s writings often contain elements of contemplation and inner reflection.
Saint Teresa of Ávila (1515–1582): While not strictly a Renaissance figure, Saint Teresa of Ávila was a Spanish mystic and writer who lived during the Renaissance period. She was a reformer within the Carmelite Order and wrote extensively on her experiences of prayer and contemplation. Her work “The Interior Castle” explores the stages of the spiritual journey and the importance of inner exploration.
John of the Cross (1542–1591): Another Spanish mystic and poet, John of the Cross, was a contemporary of Saint Teresa of Ávila. He is known for his writings on the “dark night of the soul” and the transformative aspects of spiritual contemplation.

Post-Modern "Meditation"

Here’s a more accurate timeline of key individuals and events that brought meditation concepts, traditions, and strategies to the United States during the early 1950s and 1960s:

1950s: D.T. Suzuki, a Japanese scholar, introduced Zen Buddhism to the United States through his writings and lectures.
1960s: Transcendental Meditation (TM) gained attention due to the efforts of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi popularized TM through lectures and seminars, attracting celebrities and individuals interested in meditation and stress reduction.
1965: The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement, was founded in the United States. Although not exclusively focused on meditation, ISKCON introduced Vedic spiritual practices, including mantra meditation and devotional practices.
1966: Swami Satchidananda, an Indian spiritual teacher, gained visibility in the United States through his participation in the “Human Be-In” event in San Francisco and his opening address at the Woodstock Festival. His teachings emphasized yoga, meditation, and spiritual philosophy.
1968: Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, a Tibetan Buddhist teacher, arrived in the United States and founded Tail of the Tiger (later known as Karmê Chöling), an early Tibetan Buddhist meditation center.
1968: Ram Dass (formerly known as Richard Alpert), along with Timothy Leary, authored the book “The Psychedelic Experience,” which drew from Tibetan Book of the Dead teachings and introduced spiritual concepts and meditation practices to a broader audience.
1968: Zen Center of Los Angeles was established by Sasaki Roshi, contributing to the growing interest in Zen Buddhism and meditation.

The evolution of meditation practices from the Renaissance to the cultural changes of post-modernity in the 1960s in the United States brought about significant shifts in how meditation was understood, practiced, and integrated into society.

While there were continuities in the broader themes of inner exploration and spirituality, there were key changes that reflected the changing cultural landscape. Here are some core aspects that changed or evolved:

1. Integration of Eastern Practices:

Renaissance: During the Renaissance, contemplative practices were influenced by a revival of ancient philosophies and mystical traditions. While these practices shared some similarities with meditation, they were often rooted in Western religious and philosophical contexts.
Post-Modernity: In the 1960s, there was a growing interest in Eastern spiritual practices, such as Buddhist meditation, yoga, and mindfulness, brought to the forefront by figures like Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and Swami Satchidananda. This integration of Eastern practices into Western cultures introduced new techniques and perspectives on meditation.

2. Secularization and Stress Reduction:

Renaissance: Many contemplative practices during the Renaissance were tied to religious and philosophical contexts. Inner exploration was often intertwined with spiritual pursuits.
Post-Modernity: In the 1960s, there was a trend toward secularization of meditation, particularly through practices like Transcendental Meditation (TM) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Meditation began to be seen as a tool for stress reduction, mental well-being, and personal growth, rather than exclusively for religious or spiritual goals.

3. Mind-Body Connection and Holistic Health:

Renaissance: While the Renaissance saw some exploration of the mind-body connection, it was not as central to contemplative practices.
Post-Modernity: In the 1960s and beyond, meditation became associated with holistic health, promoting physical and mental well-being. Yoga practices, which include meditation, emphasized the integration of mind and body for overall health and balance.

4. Accessibility and Popularization:

Renaissance: Contemplative practices in the Renaissance were often limited to religious or scholarly circles and required specialized knowledge.
Post-Modernity: In the 1960s, meditation practices were popularized and made accessible to a broader audience. Books, seminars, and workshops brought meditation to mainstream culture, allowing people from various backgrounds to engage in these practices.

5. Scientific Interest and Research:

Renaissance: Contemplative practices during the Renaissance were often explored from a philosophical or experiential perspective.
Post-Modernity: In the 1960s and beyond, meditation gained attention from scientific and medical communities. Research began to investigate the psychological, physiological, and neurological effects of meditation, contributing to its acceptance as a legitimate practice for well-being.

The evolution of meditation from the Renaissance to post-modernity reflects broader cultural shifts towards Eastern influences, secularization, holistic health, and accessibility.

These changes transformed meditation into a practice that addressed the needs and aspirations of a changing society, expanding its reach and impact beyond its historical roots.

Integral "Meditation"

Non-invasive technology has played a significant role in decentralizing meditation practices from traditional lineages and making them more accessible to a wider audience.

Some technology has introduced new methods and tools that offer similar benefits and sometimes even enhanced experiences. Here’s how technology has contributed to this decentralization:

Access and Convenience: Technology has made meditation practices available anytime, anywhere. Meditation apps, online platforms, and guided meditation videos allow individuals to access a variety of meditation techniques at their own convenience, eliminating geographical and scheduling constraints.
Diverse Techniques: Technology offers a wide range of meditation techniques, catering to different preferences and goals. From mindfulness and visualization to breathwork and sound therapy, people can explore and experiment with various approaches to find what resonates with them.
Guided Practices: Guided meditation recordings and apps provide step-by-step instructions and cues, making it easier for beginners to follow along and cultivate a meditation practice without the need for an in-person teacher.
Biofeedback and Wearable Devices: Wearable devices and biofeedback tools provide real-time data on physiological parameters such as heart rate, brainwave activity, and stress levels. These technologies can help users gauge the effectiveness of their meditation practice and adjust their techniques accordingly.
Neurofeedback and Brainwave Entrainment: Some technologies use neurofeedback and brainwave entrainment techniques to guide the brain into specific states associated with meditation, relaxation, and focus. These methods aim to enhance the meditation experience and deepen states of mindfulness.
Community and Social Interaction: Online meditation communities, forums, and social media groups provide opportunities for practitioners to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other, replicating some aspects of traditional sanghas (spiritual communities).

Integral post-lineage non-invasive technology refers to advanced technological tools that aim to enhance meditation experiences beyond what pre-modern, modern, and post-modern meditation concepts and strategies have achieved. While it’s important to approach these claims with discernment, here are some potential benefits that such technology could offer:

Personalized Guidance: Integral technology could analyze an individual’s physiological and psychological data to provide personalized meditation guidance. It could adapt meditation techniques based on the practitioner’s stress levels, heart rate variability, brainwave patterns, and other biofeedback.
Efficiency and Effectiveness: Technology could optimize meditation techniques to achieve specific goals more efficiently. For example, it could expedite the induction of meditative states or help practitioners access deeper states of relaxation and focus more quickly.
Neuroplasticity Enhancement: Certain technology might incorporate neurofeedback and brainwave entrainment techniques to stimulate neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself. This could potentially accelerate the development of beneficial neural pathways associated with meditation and mindfulness.
Real-Time Biofeedback: Advanced sensors and devices could offer real-time biofeedback during meditation sessions, helping practitioners maintain their focus and adjust their techniques based on immediate physiological responses.
Enhanced Mind-Body Connection: Technology could help users establish a stronger mind-body connection by facilitating greater awareness of bodily sensations, energy flows, and emotional states during meditation.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR technologies could create immersive environments that enhance meditation by offering captivating visual and auditory stimuli. This could help practitioners achieve heightened states of concentration and relaxation.
Deepening Mindfulness: Integral technology might aid in deepening mindfulness skills by providing interactive exercises that train attention, emotional regulation, and self-awareness in novel ways.
Data-Driven Insights: The collection and analysis of meditation-related data could offer practitioners insights into their progress over time. This could motivate sustained practice and provide measurable markers of improvement.
Non-Dual Experiences: Some technology could aim to facilitate non-dual experiences—a state of profound unity or oneness. While non-dual states have been central to various spiritual traditions, technology might provide new avenues for achieving and exploring these states.
Global Accessibility: Integral technology could be accessible to people around the world, potentially bridging cultural and geographic barriers and creating a more interconnected meditation community.

Dr. Dan Cohen's Soltec Technology

Dr. Dan Cohen is a neurologist in Minnesota.

He is the creator of Soltechealth.com

Non-invasive frequency-based technology, such as brainwave entrainment and neurofeedback, aims to influence brain activity and promote specific mental states. While these technologies can offer benefits, it’s important to approach them with a clear understanding of their potential and limitations. Here are some potential benefits that non-invasive frequency-based technology could offer in terms of calming the fight-or-flight response:

Quick Relaxation: Frequency-based technology can be designed to induce brainwave patterns associated with relaxation and calmness more rapidly than traditional meditation practices, which might require more time and practice to achieve similar results.
Precision: Technology can precisely target specific brainwave frequencies associated with relaxation and stress reduction, potentially leading to consistent outcomes.
Brainwave Entrainment: Brainwave entrainment techniques synchronize brainwave patterns to external auditory or visual stimuli, guiding the brain into desired states. This can help guide the brain away from fight-or-flight responses and toward more relaxed states.
Reduced Learning Curve: For individuals who struggle with traditional meditation techniques, technology can provide a more structured approach that doesn’t require extensive training or learning complex practices.
Customization: Frequency-based technology can be tailored to an individual’s needs and preferences, delivering specific frequencies and patterns that are most effective for them.
Feedback Mechanisms: Neurofeedback technology provides real-time information about brainwave activity, enabling individuals to learn how to modulate their responses and gradually shift away from fight-or-flight modes.
Consistency: Frequency-based technology can offer consistent experiences, reducing variability that might occur due to differences in individual meditation sessions.
Access for Beginners: Individuals new to meditation might find it easier to start with frequency-based technology before transitioning to more traditional meditation practices.

References

Whitehead, A. N., & Griffin, D. R. (1978). Process and reality: An Essay in Cosmology.

Hubbard, B. M. (2015). Conscious Evolution, Revised Edition: Awakening the Power of Our Social Potential. New World Library.

Hubbard, B. M. (2012). Emergence: The Shift from Ego to Essence. Hampton Roads Publishing.

Beck, D. E., & Cowan, C. C. (2006). Spiral dynamics : mastering values, leadership, and change : exploring the new science of memetics. In Blackwell eBooks. http://ci.nii.ac.jp/ncid/BA74173654

Wynne, A. (2007). The origin of Buddhist meditation. Routledge.

McMahan, D. L. (2008). The making of Buddhist modernism. OUP USA.

Gafni, M. (2012). Your unique self: The radical path to personal enlightenment. Integral Publishers, LLC.

Cohen, Dan. Addicted to My Ego. Balboa Press, 2018.