Technique
Acem Meditation involves the mental repetition of a simple sound, called a meditation sound, a meaningless combination of vowels and consonants which is believed to help mind and body relax and to bring unconscious material closer to consciousness.
The way the meditator repeats the meditation sound is thought to be of paramount importance. The sound should be repeated with a so-called free mental attitude, i.e., in an effortless manner which does not require concentration and which allows thoughts, feelings and other impulses to come and go freely. At times forgetting the sound because one is absorbed by spontaneous thoughts is considered a central part of the technique.
In line with this emphasis on a free mental attitude, Acem does not recommend any position that strains the body. The meditator should sit comfortably with good support in the lower back. Meditation habits vary, but for long-term results, 30 minutes twice a day or 45 minutes once a day is recommended.
Courses in Acem Meditation include beginner's courses, courses for established meditators, and retreats with long meditations. These courses emphasise group dynamics and encourage discussion of one's practice. Individual or group guidance is seen as a help to increase the effect of meditation, and sometimes provides opportunities for discussion of central life issues, which are believed to be reflected in one's meditative practice.
Long meditations (i.e. meditations of more than an hour) followed by guidance are believed to provide deeper relaxation and increase the potential for personal growth. Most Acem centres arrange meetings with meditations of 1½ to 2 hours. At retreats, the length of time is increased beyond the 3-hour level, and at so-called deepening retreats beyond the 6-hour level.
Read more about this topic: Acem Meditation
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