Meditation has become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to manage stress and combat chronic diseases. There are many different types of meditation, each with its own benefits. In this article, we'll explore five of the most common types of meditation: mindfulness, body scanning, walking, loving-kindness, and transcendental meditation. Mindfulness meditation is an ancient Indian form of meditation that dates back more than 2,500 years.
It is based on the teachings of Buddha and is credited with the mindfulness meditation movement in the United States. Mindfulness combines concentration with awareness and requires a disciplined meditation posture and a straight back. Practicing mindfulness has been shown to reduce depression, stress, and anxiety, as well as promote resilience. Guided meditation, also known as visualization or guided imagery, is a method of meditation in which images or mental situations are formed that are relaxing for you.
It is perfect for beginners as the teacher's expert guidance can help you get the most out of a new experience. Vipassana is an ancient Indian form of meditation that means seeing things as they really are. It is traditionally taught over a 10-day course during which students must abstain from a number of things including toxic substances and sexual activity. Loving-kindness meditation is a spiritual practice that involves believing in and connecting with something greater than the individual self.
It helps you understand how your mind works and serves as the basis for overcoming dissatisfaction, impatience, intolerance and many other habits that prevent us from living a fuller and happier life. Transcendental meditation is a specific form of mantra meditation introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in 1955 in India and the West. In this technique, an image is brought to mind that creates a particular feeling or quality. There are currently eight basic techniques which combine elements of insightful (vipassana) and calming (samatha) meditation in most 10- or 30-day courses. In addition to these five types of meditation, there are many other forms such as drinking tea meditation, focused meditation, and guided meditation exercises that can be used anytime, anywhere.
Whenever you discover that your thoughts are wandering during mindfulness meditation, simply observe them without judgment and refocus your attention on your breathing. Different types of meditation have different benefits but some of them include reduced anxiety, better self-control, better self-care, and less pain. Scientific evidence has also emerged showing that meditation can be a useful tool for combating chronic diseases such as depression, heart disease and chronic pain.
