Meditation Techniques

There are many meditation techniques to still and quiet the mind. For seasoned meditators, it is easy to get to a deep state of profound silence. For those who have never meditated, it may take a little longer to get to the place of silence, but with a little practice it will become much easier.

Getting to the space between thoughts in meditation is the goal. That is why we try different methods for meditation. The space between the thoughts is where all creativity, bliss and connection to your higher power lies.

Meditation reduces stress and increases well being. The aim of meditation is to bring inner peace. Meditation helps millions of people to cope with the stresses and struggles of everyday life. People who suffer from depression find that meditation lifts their mood and presents a sense of connectedness and purpose.

Meditation is taught in stress-reduction classes that are geared toward people of all walks of life and every profession. It is not just for those who practice yoga, Buddhism or a religious order. Although there are many different kinds of meditation techniques, all forms of practice lead to the same place; the silence within.

It is advisable to try different techniques to find the one that gives you the best results. Meditation should never be complex or difficult. If it is, you most likely have not had proper instruction or guidance from a qualified teacher.

The ability to meditate translates into an improved ability to focus in daily life. The methods for maintaining your meditation practice may vary, but need to be practiced regularly for best results.

Several types of techniques are:

Observation of the Breath - This meditation technique involves bringing your awareness to the gentle and natural flow of the breath. When the mind wanders, gently bring the awareness back to the breath;

Mindfulness Meditation - This technique is another way to tame the mind. It is the process of staying in the present moment rather than thinking about the future or the past;

Mantra Meditation - The use of mantras or silent word repetition brings our focus to the sound, which prevents the mind from wandering;

Tratak (candle flame meditation) - This is a great way for people who have difficulty concentrating to start learning how to focus through gazing at a lit candle;

Observation of External Stimuli - Sometimes just viewing something beautiful can bring you to a meditative state, as in taking in the greatness of an ocean or the night sky;

Visualization - The process of visualizing yourself in a place that brings joy can relieve you of the turmoil you are facing and can bring about a sense of deep peace.

Meditation can be a spiritual practice. Many people use meditation as a form of prayer. When you start practicing any of the meditation techniques, you will realize that there is a great source of love and peace within you.

Meditation is just one of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, codified in the The Sutras of Patanjali, our source of knowledge and guidance into yoga.

Learn more about meditation here.



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