When you get a cold and you don’t feel very well, can you still meditate? Do you have any hints on what to do when you’re not in a perfect health for meditation?
—João Luís , Brazil
Dear João,
For many people, having a cold isn’t a hindrance to meditation. Of course, it depends on the severity of the symptoms. I’ve often found that meditation is actually helpful while having a cold, unless one is really stuffed up and not breathing easily. In such cases you might want to try steam inhalation, which is an effective home remedy for a cold.
As to your second question – I would suggest that you experiment with meditation when you are limited by any health conditions. However, there may be situations when it would be wise to check with a physician or health care provider, just to make sure there are no problems.
It’s good to know that meditation helps to release stress in our minds and bodies. Often when we are unwell, meditation can help to alleviate these stresses, and get us on the road to wellness once again.
Blessings,
Nayaswami Pranaba
