Can Vipassana meditation help during times of anxiety and stress?

"Vipassana meditation is different from other forms of meditation which use or visualise objects outside of the body," says Rohan Jajodia, yoga instructor for Cupertino-based MyYogaTeacher service, which offers live (not pre-recorded) private and group yoga classes online. Jajodia developed a deeper understanding of the practice of Vipassana meditation after attending a dedicated retreat.

He explains, "In Vipassana meditation the practice is to quietly observe and introspect each body part and the sensation they generate, without reacting to them. It helps one to remain calm, and focus deep within one’s self. It helps in reducing pain and suffering of the body and mind if practiced over a long time. It also facilitates changes in the behavioral pattern of making rash decisions out of anger and fear, by bringing equanimity."

According to MyYogaTeacher instructor Prakash Chandra Bhatt, “Vipassana means looking inside. When we turn our focus inside by closing our eyes, it reveals a lot about us including all the suppressed emotions and conflicts we hold onto, so we go closer towards becoming a pure, clean self.... I had my first Vipassana meditation long ago and just one Vipassana retreat got rid of my addictions and constant anxiety I used to have."

Explains Bhatt, "Vipassana practice slows down your heart rate and calms your nerves, relieving the tension in your body and mind. Once you drop stress and negativity, you begin to experience a good mood and positive outlook, most of the time."

Adds Jajodia, "The practice of Vipassana requires immense dedication to reap maximum benefits. Once you initiate the practice and understand how to do it in a correct manner, it is recommended that you practice it one hour in the morning and evening before the meals. It slowly becomes a lifestyle where your mind becomes focused on every movement and sensation in the body, effortlessly."

If possible, Bhatt recommends "a good, old-fashioned, 11-day, off-the-grid Vipassana retreat to everyone. If you can’t do the retreat, practicing 3 times a week for 1-hour sessions, just after getting up or before going to bed can produce a lot of good in your life. Making a habit of practicing it every day--just for 30 minutes--can change your life."