Author: Linda Johnson - Page 11

Famous Meditation Teachers: Exploring Wisdom and Insight from Renowned Masters

January 14, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Meditation has long been regarded as a powerful tool for self-awareness, inner peace, and personal transformation. Throughout history, many influential meditation teachers have shared their wisdom, helping countless individuals deepen their practice and achieve greater mental clarity. These teachers span a variety of traditions, from Buddhism to mindfulness practices and modern meditation movements. Their teachings … Read more

Ganser Syndrome: Understanding the Rare Psychological Disorder

January 13, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Ganser syndrome is an exceptionally rare and poorly understood psychological condition, characterized by deliberate and seemingly nonsensical responses to questions or situations. Often referred to as “nonsense syndrome,” it presents as a peculiar type of dissociative disorder where individuals appear to intentionally provide incorrect answers while being fully aware of their inaccuracies. However, these behaviors … Read more

Emptiness Meditation: Understanding the Practice and Its Benefits

January 12, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Emptiness meditation, a cornerstone of Buddhist meditation practices, is rooted in the concept of shunyata, or emptiness. The practice invites practitioners to explore the inherent emptiness of all phenomena, emphasizing the absence of inherent existence in objects, thoughts, and even the self. Through this profound meditation, individuals gain insight into the nature of reality, which … Read more

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder: Managing Extreme Irritability in Youth

January 11, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is a relatively recent addition to the field of mental health diagnosis, introduced in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in 2013. This condition is characterized by severe and recurrent temper outbursts, disproportionate to the situation and inconsistent with the child’s developmental stage. … Read more

Setting Goals at a Meditation Retreat: A Path to Deepening Mindfulness and Inner Peace

January 10, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Meditation retreats offer a unique opportunity to step away from the distractions of daily life and immerse oneself in a peaceful, supportive environment designed for deep reflection and mindfulness. One of the most important aspects of a meditation retreat is setting personal goals that guide the retreat experience, helping to maximize its benefits. Whether you … Read more

Major Depressive Disorder: Breaking the Stigma Around Severe Depression

January 9, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Major depressive disorder (MDD), commonly known as clinical depression, is a serious and widespread mental health condition that significantly impacts a person’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, and overall functioning. Unlike temporary feelings of sadness or grief, MDD persists over an extended period and can severely interfere with an individual’s ability to carry out daily activities. It … Read more

The Goal of Meditation: Achieving Mindfulness, Peace, and Mental Clarity

January 8, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Meditation is a transformative practice used worldwide for improving emotional, mental, and spiritual health. The goal of meditation is not a one-size-fits-all concept but a path that evolves with the individual’s personal needs and intentions. While many people use meditation to relax or reduce stress, the broader objective extends to fostering mindfulness, inner peace, and … Read more

What is Dysthymia? Understanding Persistent Depressive Disorder

January 7, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Dysthymia, now officially referred to as Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), is a chronic form of depression that often goes unnoticed due to its subtle, long-term nature. Unlike major depressive disorder, which is marked by intense and short-term episodes of depression, dysthymia is a persistent condition, lasting for at least two years in adults or one … Read more

What to Focus on During Meditation: A Guide to Deepening Your Practice

January 6, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Meditation is a powerful tool for cultivating inner peace, reducing stress, and gaining clarity. However, one of the most common questions beginners ask is: What should I focus on during meditation? The answer varies depending on your meditation style and goals, but in general, the focus of your meditation should help quiet the mind and … Read more

Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures: The Reality of Dissociative Neurological Symptom Disorder

January 5, 2025 by Linda Johnson

Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES), often misdiagnosed and misunderstood, represent a significant neurological and psychological condition. Unlike epileptic seizures, PNES stems not from abnormal electrical activity in the brain but from psychological distress. The condition is classified under Dissociative Neurological Symptom Disorder (DNSD), a complex spectrum of symptoms that can include motor dysfunction, sensory impairment, and … Read more