Meditation isn’t just sitting in silence. You can do it while lying down, standing, walking, swimming, doing yoga or any other movements. Meditation is actually the state of mind that embraces awareness and acceptance. It therefore can be done anywhere and any time you put your mind to it.
Defining and understanding the many types of meditation may be more challenging than the practice of any one method. Simply put, any meditation practice can help reduce stress, as it helps the mind become open, aware, mindful and accepting. Explore the various forms of meditation and choose the one you are most comfortable incorporating in your daily lifestyle. Here are just a few:
Mindfulness meditation is a popular practice, because it is fluid and allows your mind to flow from one thought to the next. You do not need to focus on any specific thing, and it is perfectly fine to let your mind wander. You just need to be aware of the sounds you hear but not fixate on them.
Focused meditation helps you clear out the clutter your mind may have accumulated. By focusing on a single sound, object, mantra or thought, you can clear out all the things that are stressful. The key is to stay focused on the single item you choose and not to let your mind wander.
Mantra meditation involves chanting. You pick the word(s) you want to chant and focus on the sound. The chanting often creates a deep vibration that helps the mind to concentrate on a single repeated mantra.
Movement meditation can be relaxing and slightly hypnotic. Simply choose a fluid movement to focus on. It can be swaying from side to side or moving in a circular motion. It can be done while sitting or standing. This type of meditation can be carried over to any individual sport, such as running, hiking, or swimming: focus on the movement and clear your mind of anything else.
Spiritual meditation is easy for those who regularly pray, because it is a way to communicate with a higher power. Focus on a question you might want to ask or even on giving thanks for what you have received.