The True Essence of Meditation: Finding Clarity with Eyes Closed and the Value of Creation Without Money
- harris234y
- Jan 7
- 4 min read
Meditation is often misunderstood as simply sitting quietly with eyes open, observing the world around you. Yet, true meditation requires closing your eyes and turning inward, allowing your mind to rest and your spirit to connect deeply with itself. For travelers and hiking enthusiasts, this practice can unlock a profound clarity that enhances every journey, especially when paired with the solitude of hiking solo on the best hiking trails. This post explores how closing your eyes during meditation cultivates genuine peace, why constant work can block this clarity, and how creating value without money—often the domain of the poor—can enrich your life and travels.
Why Meditation Requires Closing Your Eyes
Many believe meditation is about being aware of the world around you, but this is only part of mindfulness. True meditation demands closing your eyes to shut out distractions and focus inward. Here’s why:
Reduces sensory overload
When your eyes are open, your brain processes countless images and movements. Closing your eyes cuts off this flood, allowing your mind to settle.
Deepens concentration
With fewer external stimuli, your thoughts become clearer. You can observe your mind’s patterns without interference.
Connects you with your inner self
Meditation is about self-awareness, not just awareness of surroundings. Closing your eyes helps you listen to your inner voice and emotions.
For hikers, especially those who enjoy hiking solo, this inward focus can be transformative. After a day on the best hiking trails, closing your eyes during meditation helps integrate the physical experience with mental calmness.
How Working All Day Blocks Meditation and Creativity
Working nonstop, whether physically or mentally, leaves little room for meditation or creative thought. This constant activity is like a wild bear roaming your mind, threatening to destroy your peace and focus. Here’s how this happens:
Mental exhaustion
Continuous work drains your mental energy, making it hard to sit quietly and meditate.
Stress accumulation
Stress triggers a fight-or-flight response, which conflicts with the calm state meditation requires.
Lack of time for reflection
Without breaks, your mind never slows down enough to generate new ideas or insights.
To “kill the wild bear” means to intentionally stop this cycle. Set aside time daily to close your eyes and meditate, even if just for a few minutes. This practice clears mental clutter and opens space for creativity.
Creating Value Without Money: Lessons from the Poor
Many believe creating valuable things requires money, but history and experience show otherwise. The poor often innovate and build without financial resources, relying on creativity and resourcefulness. This mindset can inspire travelers and hikers to appreciate non-material wealth.
Using natural resources
Travelers on the best hiking trails often learn to use what nature provides—sticks for shelter, stones for tools, plants for medicine.
Sharing skills and knowledge
Communities without money exchange skills like cooking, repairing, or storytelling, creating value through connection.
Focusing on purpose, not profit
Creating for meaning rather than money leads to more fulfilling and sustainable outcomes.
For those who hike solo, embracing this approach can deepen your connection to the environment and yourself. You learn to rely on your skills and intuition, enhancing your journey beyond material possessions.
How to Meditate with Eyes Closed for Maximum Clarity
Mastering meditation with eyes closed takes practice. Here’s a simple guide to get started:
Find a quiet spot
Choose a place free from distractions. This could be a forest clearing on your hike or a quiet room.
Sit comfortably
Keep your back straight but relaxed. You can sit on the ground, a cushion, or a chair.
Close your eyes gently
Avoid squeezing them shut. Let your eyelids rest softly.
Focus on your breath
Notice the sensation of air entering and leaving your nostrils. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back.
Observe thoughts without judgment
Let thoughts come and go like clouds. Don’t engage or push them away.
Start with short sessions
Begin with 5 to 10 minutes and gradually increase as you feel comfortable.
End with gratitude
Before opening your eyes, take a moment to appreciate the stillness and clarity you’ve cultivated.
Combining Meditation with Hiking Solo on the Best Hiking Trails
Hiking solo offers a unique opportunity to practice meditation and creativity in nature. Here’s how to integrate both:
Use hiking as moving meditation
Pay attention to each step, the sounds of the forest, and your breath. This keeps your mind present.
Pause to meditate with eyes closed
Find a safe spot on the trail to sit and meditate. This deepens your connection to the environment.
Reflect on your creations
Whether it’s a photo, a journal entry, or a simple shelter made from natural materials, appreciate the value you create without money.
Balance activity and rest
Avoid working or pushing yourself too hard. Allow time for mental rest to prevent the wild bear of stress from taking over.
Practical Tips for Creating Without Money While Traveling
Travelers often face budget constraints but can still create meaningful experiences and items. Here are practical ideas:
Craft with natural materials
Use leaves, stones, or wood to make art or tools.
Exchange services
Offer skills like language teaching or cooking in exchange for lodging or food.
Document your journey
Write, draw, or photograph your travels. These creations hold personal value and can inspire others.
Learn from locals
Engage with communities to discover traditional crafts or survival techniques.
Practice minimalism
Focus on experiences and relationships rather than possessions.
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