I meditated in the dark for 15 minutes

I recently tried an evening meditation technique. The directions for this meditation were simple: meditate in complete darkness for 15 minutes. I added a silence qualifier. I made it for 12 minutes.

I sat in my bed, turned off all the lights, set my phone timer for 15 minutes, and closed my eyes because I couldn't block out all light sources. I paid attention to thoughts, sensations, and sounds.

I noticed the feel of the sheets on my legs, the way my back nestled into the headboard, the softness of the pillow as my head leaned against it. An even stronger sensation was the ambient noise from outside - the sound of windchimes, the noises from dogs barking in the distance, the cars driving in my neighborhood.

When the time was up, I reflected on the fact that I surround myself with noise so often. TV on in the background, music playing, social media video clips, and ocean waves sounds for sleeping. I was grateful to pay attention to the sounds around me and realize it's a privilege that some people don't have.

Darkness meditation reflection

My two biggest takeaways during the darkness meditation were the realization that I never allow myself to feel bored. I also found clarity on what I needed to do tomorrow at work, at home, and in writing this article.

Are you interested in trying a darkness meditation?

Step 1: Prepare your environment

• Turn off lights and sounds

• Sit comfortably in a chair, couch, bed

• Don’t worry about the thoughts going through your head. Just notice them.

• Set a timer 

Step 2: Reflect

• What did you notice?

• If you had some interesting insights, write them down on paper or your Notes app

The magic you seek is in the work you’re avoiding. Dipen Parmar