For many people around the world, engaging in consistent meditation can help them to find a better peace of mind. What is not always well-known about meditation is that there are several different techniques that can be used to get the full effect of the practice. From breathing meditation to walking meditation, there is a technique that works for everyone, no matter if they are a beginner or an expert.
Technique 1: Breathing Meditation
Many beginners often begin meditation using the breathing meditation technique. With the technique, the entire focus is on one’s breathing and understanding what the breathes sound and feel like. The primary focus of the technique is concentrating on the breath as a way to relax the mind. It gives the mind something to focus on, which in return can subconsciously relax the different muscles that are tense. When beginning this technique, it is important to remember that the mind will naturally wander to other topics, and that is okay. What is the most important part of the technique is to lightly bring the mind back to focus on the breath if the mind does ever wander.
Technique 2: Mindfulness Meditation
Similar to breathing meditation, mindfulness meditation begins with a primary focus on one’s breathing patterns. Mindfulness meditation takes it a step further by taking note of the different feelings and sensations within the body. The goal of this technique is to figure out how the body is feeling, so it is important to take note of any tension that the body may be holding. Like breathing meditation, it is important to lightly bring the mind back to focus if it begins to wander again.
Technique 3: Empty Mind Meditation
Unlike some of the other meditation techniques, the empty mind meditation allows the mind to wander on its own. With this technique, the primary goal is to simply sit with one’s eyes closed, and let the mind go in any direction. The goal of this technique is to learn how to accept different thoughts that come to one’s mind, without any judgment or attachment with the thoughts.
Final Thoughts
While each technique will differ in the actions and goals, meditation can help keep a person’s mind at ease. The ultimate goal of meditation is to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state of mind, indicating that beginning with one of the techniques can help someone truly learn the art of meditation.