Types of Meditation and Which One is Right for You

After going through a tough phase (and still going) during the Covid pandemic and forced home isolation, a lot of us went through that bad phase mentally. So, I felt the need to do something that would regain my calm and composure. And what better than meditation to help us during these tough times.

You might have heard of different types of meditation and wondered what is the difference among them all and which one would be the best for me.

Well, it is a personal preference. It is just like some people prefer almonds, some like cashews, and some love raisins but all of them are good for health. Similarly, all kinds of meditation are beneficial if performed in the right manner and with sincerity. Listed below are 8 different types of meditation to choose from as per your liking.

Mindfulness Meditation:

It is the most common type of meditation that has its origins in Buddhist teachings and is most popular in the west. In this meditation technique, you have to observe your thoughts in the third person without any judgment. You can do this on your own without the help of any teacher.

Focused Meditation:

It is done by concentrating using any of your five senses or focusing on external influences like the sound of a gong, or on a candle flame. It can prove to be difficult for someone who is just starting out on this journey.

Mantra Meditation:

This meditation technique has its roots in Indian and Buddhist traditions wherein a practitioner chants a mantra or a word, e.g., ‘Om’ repetitively. Some find this chanting easier than focusing your awareness on the breath.

Visualization Meditation:

This is practiced by visualizing a positive picture or a scene in your mind and intensely picturing it using all your senses. People use it to motivate themselves and increase their focus and inner peace.

Metta Meditation:

It is also known as the Loving-Kindness meditation technique which is derived from the Buddhist tradition. It is practiced especially by those who hold a feeling of resentment or anger towards someone by arising compassion and empathy in oneself towards friends, family members, and all the other people.

Transcendental Meditation:

Unlike Mantra meditation, a different mantra or a series of words, based on the personal characteristics of a person, is given to each practitioner. This technique is proved to have a calming effect on the mind, help reduces blood pressure, and minimize stress levels.

Movement Meditation:

As the name suggests, this technique involves movement which could be walking through the woods, or taking a stroll in the park and being one with the motion. This is especially helpful for those who prefer action over resting and letting their minds roam free.

Spiritual Meditation:

This form of meditation springs from Eastern religions such as Hinduism and Taoism in which focus is on seeking spiritual growth by focusing on the connection with God. It is beneficial for those who are walking on the spiritual path and seeking spiritual growth.

Conclusion

Each type of meditation comes with its own set of benefits — some will help increase your focus, some will increase clarity, some will provide you inner peace and others will help you grow spiritually. It is up to you to decide what it is that you want to achieve in life.

Hope it helps you lead a more aware and fulfilling life.