The OmPhone: Technology of Meditation

I tend to resist the siren’s call of technology. Or at least I do my best to. Influenced by the writings of Neil Postman and Jerry Mander, I now see how we trumpet and embrace the benefits of new technologies without ever really taking into consideration the possible—and often certain­—destructive consequences they radiate around them. By the time we come to know the negatives, we think we’ve become too committed to pull back and so we swallow the loss as the cost of “progress.” Questioning such assumptions can stir quite the hornet’s nest, much like questioning democracy or capitalism does. (Go ahead, try those two out and see what response you get!)

There is one “technology” I’ve ever-more-gladly come to embrace, though: meditation. Here’s a breakthrough that’s been tested and verified for thousands of years and still works like a charm. Meditation makes me calmer, happier, more focused, more resilient, more patient and more insightful. It never feels addictive or destructive. I don’t recall ever hearing someone lament “I’ve just got to stop meditating; it’s ruining my job performance and my family life!” or “This mantra’s got me so on edge, I could just punch someone!” Yes, deep practice can dredge up painful memories or difficult self-recognition, but the awareness itself becomes the salve to the wound.

What do I mean by meditation? What’s my operating definition for this graceful technology? Internally quiet, obligation-free time that connects me to mindful presence, balanced integration, and original source. It may include sound or music, but it’s non-verbal. It may lead to insight, but it’s non-logical. Like a wizard, this technology transports me to the wonderful land of “Is”.

You may never have thought of meditation as a technology until now. If I may, then, let me be the first to herald the amazing glories of this old-school-yet-modern-day, high-tech gizmo:

THE OmPHONE!

• Reliable! The OmPhone works, 24×7, guaranteed. Whenever you need greater calm and clarity, simply activate the mindfulness toggle and notice your presence shift.
• Mobile! Lighter than a feather and consuming less than a lungful of airspace, the OmPhone connects you with infinite wisdom wherever you roam. Signal strength may vary depending on surrounding cacophony.
• Durable! You might drop your practice a thousand times, but the OmPhone always kicks on when intention calls.
• Long-lasting! A simple 20-minute charge in the morning can bring feelings of peace and contentment throughout the day.
• Scalable! Sit by yourself, focus with a partner, breathe with a community—meditation can fit individuals and groups of all sizes!
  

  OmPhone towers on the Horizon network.
  (Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand)

• Customizable! Most sit or recline when using the OmPhone, but many prefer hiking, rowing, or swimming. Others opt for painting, journal writing, or singing. Choose the App—or several Apps—that best fit your unique style.

• No fixed contracts! Horizon, Spirit, AL&Lah, GoddessMobile—no carrier offers an exclusive contract on meditation that’s “Buddha” than the others. Choose a plan that fits your religion or go independent. Just get yourself started—the breath is up to you!
• Best of all, free! It’s true that some carriers may levy monthly guilt, obligation, or self-doubt fees, but the only charge you’ll ever get from the OmPhone is a lightning bolt of inspiration for your life. The more you use it, the greater the return!

As I’m sure you know, operators are sitting by always and forever. Call one today to get started or just notice your first breath where you are. Don’t Dalai (Lama)–join the OmPhone revolution now!

What do you think makes meditation so effective? If the “OmPhone” works so well, why don’t we use it more often? What keeps people from buying in?