What is the main purpose of meditation?

The main purpose of meditation is to increase awareness of the moment. This practice encourages individuals to focus their attention on the present, allowing them to observe their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations without judgment. By cultivating mindfulness, meditation helps individuals develop a deeper understanding of their experiences and promotes a greater sense of mental clarity and emotional stability. This heightened awareness can lead to improvements in overall well-being and contribute to stress reduction and emotional regulation.

While distractions from negative thoughts can occur during meditation, the core goal is more about fostering mindfulness and presence rather than merely diverting attention. Similarly, while some forms of meditation can be physically relaxing or may indirectly support social connections through group practice or shared experiences, the primary focus remains on internal awareness and personal insight. Thus, increasing awareness of the moment encapsulates the essence of what meditation aims to achieve.