Types of meditation

5 types of meditation and their benefits

There are several ways to meditate, some would even say that there are as many ways as there are people. However, we can identify several types of meditation, although they do not form an exact number and the sources do not always coincide.

Meditation is a prayer, prayer or intimate reflection that is usually practiced in silence on some spiritual or transcendent theme. Today, the definition should be broader, as it encompasses non-religious fields. Be that as it may, it is just that, a personal and intimate moment characterized by reflection.

Types of meditation

The various forms of meditation are directly related to the purpose of meditation. Depending on the objective, the most successful meditation will be one or another. It is difficult to identify an exact number of types of meditation, although we can establish some main types.

The various types of meditation are often associated with religious currents such as Buddhism. The latter religion has a multitude of forms of manifestation, which is clearly reflected in the manifestations of meditation.

Buddhist meditation

The Buddha himself recommended getting close to nature for meditation: sitting on the ground or on a zafu cushion in a quiet space in nature provides the ideal environment to begin meditation. In this kind of meditation, the first step is to bring about a state of deepest mindfulness and tranquility. Although there are several types of Buddhist meditation, they all coincide in the contemplative techniques, which aim to achieve high understanding and nirvana.

Zen meditation or zazen

This type of meditation is based on a minimalist principle that makes tranquility possible. In the rooms or classes where this type of meditation is taught there are hardly any objects, the backgrounds are neutral and silence reigns above all. For Zen meditation, posture and breathing are very important. The spine should be straight when sitting on a chair, cushion or bench. As for the legs, they should preferably be crossed. The hands should be one on top of the other.

Finally, we give free rein to a relaxed and natural breathing. Although it may seem very simple, Zen meditation is complex to master, as it involves total control over the body and mind.

Transcendental meditation

TM is not related to religious beliefs, nor does it require a specific posture, state of mind or mantra. It is simply a matter of remaining calm for a period of time, usually around 20 minutes. People who practice TM usually do it twice a day.

Vipassana meditation

This meditation technique is one of the oldest in India. It is considered a process of self-purification, requiring concentration first on the breath, then on the body, with the goal of understanding the universal truths of impermanence, suffering and egolessness.

Taoist meditation

In Taoist meditation the aim is to use chi energy, to feel it and work with it. Often, the practice of this meditation involves feeling that energy throughout our body.

Guided meditation

It is one of the modern forms of meditation, and we can find it in specialized centers, but also in social networks and platforms like Youtube or Spotify. The main premise of guided meditation is precisely the presence of a spiritual guide. This person helps us to overcome the difficulties of meditation, especially when we are starting out.

Mindfulness meditation

This kind of modern meditation places great emphasis on mindfulness. In a world where we perform many activities unconsciously or without much attention, it is necessary to give value to practices that require our full concentration.

Meditation in yoga

A good part of yoga practices comprise, begin or end with a meditation. This is a good complement to any yoga practice: it helps to find a state of tranquility very beneficial for the practice of the asanas. There are a multitude of meditations if we take into account the traditional and modern interpretations. It is important to choose the one that suits us best, because depending on our physical and mental activity we will need one class or another.

I leave you with this video, as a reference, it gives you some context about the types of meditation, its benefits and which type of meditation is the best.   👇👇👇👇👇👇

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