Meditation is a great tool to increase your concentration. In our everyday life, we are constantly distracted by emails, messages, mobile phones, TV and radio. Studies have shown that our ability to concentrate has decreased over time. We seem to be real experts in multitasking nowadays. However, all those external stimuli really drain our energy reserves and decrease our productivity. In order to achieve great results and live in balance we need to train our concentration. This is not an excerpt from the Budhhist Dharma but from contemporary time and human resources management literature.
So how can meditation increase your concentration? During your meditation practice you focus on one thing at a time. You start with observing your breath, your inhalations and exhalations. As simple as that. Simple but not easy.. You will notice that your mind is wondering of a million times and that your body is itching nonstop. But don't worry, this is absolutely normal! It is part of the process. Acknowledge how busy your mind and body are and stay seated anyway! With every breath bring back your awareness to your breathing. Let go of everything else, just stay with your breath. This method is called one-pointedness and it trains your concentration.
After only a few weeks of practice you will experience some improvement. Focussing on your breath will get easier and your overall concentration will increase too.
One-pointedness and mindfulness go hand in hand. Carrying out your activities mindfully means focussing on one thing at a time from moment to moment. This reduces things like careless mistakes, forgetfulness and inadvertence.
By the way, mindfulness does not mean to be slow! You can be mindful and focussed while running, speaking or acting fast. This being said, one-pointedness and mindfulness are even more important when you speed! Think about it!
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