Why does meditation make me angry?

Anger seems to be a VERY common reaction to meditation. People are usually confused by it, as you expect medtation to make you more peaceful and hence, less angry.

My answer:Meditation works to purify your mind. We all have thoughts that we don't want to have - emotions that we don't want to express, etc. No yogi wants to be an angry person. So, in the past, when this type of thought started to form, we suppressed it - much like sweeping dirt under the carpet. But, meditation is like an intense spring cleaning - you pick up the carpets and give them a good shake. All of the hidden 'dirt" come out. I think it is a necessary part of the purification process. However, it doesn't mean that you're supposed to bite your husband's head off - learn to witness your own thoughts (and emotions) in a detached manner. Observe the negative thoughts, but do not act on them.

Yoga Sutra, verse 1.12 abhyasa-vairagyabhyam tan nirodhah

"vrittis may be controlled by abhyasa (regular steady practice) and vairagya (detachment)".

Replies

Peter Beacham (Sankar) September 30, 2010 at 2:54pm

Om, Swami Saradananda. That is an excellent question and an excellent answer. When abhyasa allows suppressed thoughts/emotions to bubble up from the subconscious, it is a demonstration that the spiritualization process is working. The person should be thankful, remain detached, continue their practices and watch those negative emotions evaporate in the light of approaching God Realization.
gagan September 30, 2010 at 6:58am

Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, yoga, Ayurveda and
yoga teacher training course can help you activate this relaxation response. When practiced regularly, these activities lead to a reduction in your everyday stress levels and a boost in your feelings of joy and serenity.

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