Your Guide to Different Meditation Types

 

 

Beginners are often faced with the dilemma of which of the meditation types to use because there are just so many of them.

You could try each one if you like but switching techniques too often could lead you to fail in achieving your goals in meditating. You should read about the specifics of each type and this will give you an idea of which one to use.

All meditation types have one goal and that is to achieve a state of peace and tranquility leading to enlightenment and relief from stress. Here are a few meditation types that can help you in deciding which one you think will suit you best.

Buddhist Meditation
This is a type of meditation that brings the body, mind and soul in natural balance. It was practiced by the Buddha himself all his life. It was inspired by the idea of neglecting want for material things and selfishness to become a happy person.

When you are in meditation, you are completely aware and in control of your physical and mental state. To achieve the total benefits of this meditation, you must do it regularly. You will find yourself being free from fear and will have an increase in the ability to focus and concentrate.


Mindfulness Meditation
A simple type of meditation which aims to teach us to be conscious and aware of the things we do in our lives. This makes us think things through before we decide to act upon them. It trains the body and mind to reflect on things that cannot be changed. Doing it the right way regularly can bring good things to life.


Taoist Meditation
This type has a great resemblance with the Hindu and Buddhist techniques. However the methods used in implementing this is less abstract as it doesn’t just focus on contemplation alone. Its basic attribute is being able to transform, generate and circulate energy from within referred to as deh-chee. Once achieved, it can bring about good health and long life.


Transcendental Meditation
This type is founded by Maharashi Mahesh Yogi and is one of the simplest and most popular types of meditation. This technique includes the use of conscious repetitive sounds that your mind enjoys which will lead it to rumination.

With this meditation type, a mantra is produced (which means revealed sound) and is a merger of sounds that develops involuntarily. It only takes around 15 to 20 minutes to perform this meditation but it must be done twice daily. Doing this will give your body and mind the much needed rest it deserves enabling it to release stress and tiredness.


Vipassana Meditation
This literally means to see things clearly. It was said to have been taught by Buddha and gives healing to illnesses of both the mind and body. It has eventually gained popularity and is now practiced even by people not affiliated to Buddhism. However, to be able to achieve total rumination and purification through this, you may need professional assistance.


Zen Meditation
This meditation type requires various sitting positions in preparation for the achievement of relaxation of the mind and body. By getting into the prescribed posture, your mind will start shunning unwanted thoughts and images.

Then you’ll feel your heartbeat slowing down and your breath becoming shallow, leading you in the state of full meditation. You need to only contemplate on the things at present to block away thoughts of what have been and what will be.


All of these meditation types have been shown to bring a lot of benefits especially in regards to health. So, whichever of these you choose is fine, what’s important is that you practice them in such a way that you’ll achieve all the benefits.