A teacher’s tips for learning meditation online

Taking a break from a busy schedule means different things to everyone.

Meditation remains a favourite way to relax and has become more accessible in the last two years. There are articles apps, videos, and even online classes available at your disposable.

We caught up with Joy Lin, a Reiki Master who teaches meditation and provides healings and readings to help others develop their spiritual journey. Joy was born in a traditional Chinese family in America. Her focus was always on STEM subjects, and words like and tarot cards, meditation, and channelling were not in her vocabulary. But destiny had other plans for her. At 30, she found her calling as a spiritual medium and hasn’t looked back since.

What’s the one myth about online meditation that you want to bust?

Some believe that meditating online is not as effective as in-person sessions. Meditation is about controlling your monkey mind. If you focus inwards, the environment shouldn’t matter. It is understandable that if you are a beginner, it is helpful to have someone support you through the process. This support can be in person or online.  

I have had students fall almost asleep in my guided meditations online. Once, I had to call the person on their phone to wake her up and bring her back into the present.

I have had students fall almost asleep in my guided meditations. Once, I had to call the person on their phone to wake her up and bring her back into the present.

What will you tell anyone apprehensive about meditation?

Don’t worry about getting it right and be patient with yourself. It takes practice to quieten the mind and find that focus. There are different types of meditations; guided sessions, meditating with music, and some focus on helping you sleep better. Try them and eventually you’ll find the one which works for you.

How has your approach towards teaching changed post-pandemic?  

I had to change my teaching style. Some exercises in these sessions were initially designed to be done in person. So, I had to adjust and figure out different ways to teach in a way that the essence was the same. I ensured that a person alone at home could connect with others at the energy level. It was a real leap of faith for me as a teacher and the students.

How has technology helped you as a teacher?

I use Zoom, which allows me to record sessions. If someone misses the class, they can watch it later. My students found this beneficial.

Some students get excited about the topic and have a story to share but instead of interrupting, they often add a link to the topic in the chat group or privately share a story with me.  The chat feature on Zoom has been useful to me whilst teaching.

What's the most challenging aspect of switching from in-person to online sessions?  

Planning a session with participants from different time zones is challenging. On a fun note, I mix up pleasantries - good morning withgood evening and vice versa.

I juggle different screens and teach senior students how to work with Zoom. Not everyone comes from a tech background, so I am patient with them. Another aspect of online meditation is sharing music with the class. I recently learned how to do it and now I’ve set up my playlist on Spotify.

With new groups, it becomes a challenge to bring the energy and focus of everyone to the session.  If participants are outdoors, I recommend they attend the session only if their internet is reliable.

Will you resume in-person sessions?

Umm, no. I will do most of my work online but occasionally do special in-person workshops like a full-moon meditation or teaching a tarot workshop. Even a healing seminar can prove to be beneficial in person.

Do you take sessions on the move?

I often drive to Freshwater or Manly [popular beaches in Sydney]. When my partner is busy surfing, I conduct spiritual development sessions from the beach. I pick an area away from crowds. Luckily, I don’t need much equipment – only my air pods and mobile phone. Sometimes I also conduct meditation classes in a park. In the past, I went on field trips with groups of students to different locations.

How do you create a balance between work and teaching?

I have a strict boundary between my day job and spiritual work. I always block out time for self-care and get a massage, go for walks, or sit alone.  This segregation and downtime also make me productive. I enjoy cuddling with Bells, my beautiful cat. I cook, watch movies, and listen to meditation music.

Are there any similarities between online and in-person spiritual development sessions?

Yes, I find no matter what medium I choose, there will always be a few shy participants. Be it Zoom or a workshop. I always clear the energy in my room using a sage or homemade spray.

You can listen to Joy’s podcast, The Closet Medium, aptly titled as she records them in the quietest corner of her home. She offers free meditation sessions on alternate Sundays. For more information about spiritual development offerings, check Evolutionary You.

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