>Eh, my guess is it just isn't quite as effective. I suppose that would be less guess and more...belief. :) Meditation is not just about accepting emotions an

>Eh, my guess is it just isn't quite as effective. I suppose that would be less guess and more...belief. :) Meditation is not just about accepting emotions and thoughts; you can get such by talking with a close friend or visiting a mental health counselor. Many people claim to receive new insight or guidance amidst the mental stillness. Two common explanations is that it's either God or your Higher Self sending a message. Prayer is absolutely a form of meditation, arguably a more advanced form. If meditation fosters observation of self and others, prayer takes that observation and combines it with will to cause action. What you're ultimately getting at is the difference between "going through the motions" and proper meditation and prayer. Most spiritual systems discuss a "right" way to meditate or pray which focuses less on the external actions and more on your internal desire.