The two “M” I know quite well.

The famous writer, Allan Watts, said that “if you cannot meditate in a boiler room, you cannot meditate”. I would modify to: if you cannot meditate in a MRI machine, you cannot meditate.

MRIs have become a bit of a routine. But the one today has been special. It was the last scan before I turn 30. I wrote about the significance of getting to that magic number and what it signifies here. Meditation has been a big part of my overall approach. I will elaborate a bit further in a future post about getting off meds and how meditation helps dealing with side effects.

My previous scan wasn’t ideal, few important steps weren’t followed and the lack of professionalism from the staff created a few problems on my side. Hence today, I was really trying to focus on my breathing and the overall calm in my body. I wrote before, that I don’t really mind the loud noises the machine makes. On the contrary, if you find a pattern in the deafening bangs, it can be quite relaxing.

The technique I was practising was the so-called 4-7-8 calm breathing. Breath in for four, hold for seven and breath out for eight. I also hold for further count to three before inhaling again. You can find a bit more about it below.

I would say it’s a bit more advanced style of inhale/exhale. It requires a good lung capacity and patience. Some untrained individuals might be gasping for air at the beginning. It’s a sensitive idea to count to smaller numbers and as your ability expands, you can slowly increase them. It does wonders for me and I’m trying to teach it at this paraplegic centre, where I lead weekly group meditations. But on that next time.

Today’s scan and the following consultation were another milestone. I remained calm and stayed positive and focused. Also made the neurosurgeon laugh a few times. That’s always a plus. Ohhh, and what has the MRI shown, you might wonder. No growth, further reduction in size of the tumour.

Until next time, keep smilin’.