Humans across the globe have practiced meditation in one form or another for thousands of years. When done correctly, meditation can provide a sense of clarity and balance in your life. It can even alter your brain chemistry in a positive way to prevent you from ruminating on or falling into unhealthy thought patterns.
If you’re just getting started in the world of meditation, read this handy guide to the different varieties and choose one that’s right for you.
Spiritual Meditation
Many religions and spiritual traditions call this type of meditation prayer. The practice is meant to provide a sense of connection to a higher power. Spiritual meditation can be done alone or in groups, at home or in a place of worship. Praying or meditating on a connection with a higher being can decrease your stress levels and help you feel more in tune with the universe.
Mantra Meditation
Popular in Buddhist teachings and traditions, this style of meditation involves the repetition of a word, sound, or phrase, called a mantra. The repetition helps to clear the mind and fine-tune your focus. Mantra meditation is popular with people who are uncomfortable in total silence. It’s often easier to meditate on an audible sound than on the movement of your breath.
Visualization Meditation
For folks who need more positivity in their lives, visualization practices are a great way to focus on the good things. The practice involves imagining a positive image or scene, like your favorite place at home or a scene of you achieving a positive goal. Visualization has positive effects on mood and anxiety levels, and can help you see success more clearly in your future.
Chakra Meditation
Chakra comes from the Sanskrit word for wheel. Your system is comprised of seven chakras: root, sacral, solar plexus, heart, throat, third eye, and crown. The idea behind chakra meditation is that if one of these is out of order or balance, your whole body will feel unbalanced and uncomfortable. Meditating on each of these seven areas will help you awaken and recharge the whole system and feel more peaceful and at ease.
Mindfulness Meditation
When you practice mindfulness, you become fully aware of both your body and your mind. While many folks prefer to meditate while seated in a calm and quiet space, you can use mindfulness anywhere, at any time. The idea is to be aware of your thoughts and feelings, and to let them pass without judgment or negativity.
There are as many types of meditation in the world as there are cultures and spiritual traditions. This guide to different types of meditation is a starting point for you to get in touch with your mind and body. Choose a variation that will elevate you.
Image Credit: Adobe Stock image #230581188 By Song_about_summer
yoga woman doing meditation and breathing exercises on wooden pier near lake silhouette at sunset
Comments