In today’s world, we all are very much aware of the term meditation. According to many people, meditation is a technique through which we can improve our concentration while to others it is a kind of exercise that provides peace to our mind. But, what is the actual meaning of meditation?
Meditation is a “state of thoughtless awareness”. Our mind is always wandering. It never stops, and thus we are never able to achieve the thoughtless state. To tackle our mind, not to think is a challenging task because there are billions of neurons in our brain and every second they are transmitting millions of signals thus creating n number of thoughts.
But, to attain the thoughtless state is not impossible as after all only we can tame our mind. Meditation helps us to live in the present moment; neither dwelling on the past nor worrying about the unpredictable future. There are 6 methods which help us to meditate to reduce stress and worries:
1. Mindfulness Meditation
This meditation originated from the Buddhists teachings. In Mindfulness Meditation, you have to bring your mind to focus on a single point like your breath. Let the thoughts come and pass by, as you are required not to react to those thoughts. Just observe them, and your mind will come back to its focus on its own. This type of meditation helps to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
2. Spiritual Meditation
Spiritual Meditation is mostly practised in the East. It helps you to dig into the deeper layers of yourself to find your inner self. Spiritual meditation lets you get rid of the past and the unseen future and helps you to know one’s true self. Spiritual Meditation does not come easily to a person unless he wants to think beyond and above his worldly surroundings. It allows you to connect with the almighty thus bringing a sense of satisfaction.
3. Focused Meditation
Focused Meditation is a type of meditation where one needs to focus on something like count on rosary beads. It is a more natural form of meditation as compared to the traditional ones where you need nothing to focus your mind. It helps you to set goals, build confidence and reduces stress.
4. Movement Meditation
Movement Meditation is a form of meditation which involves physical activity in such a way that it brings your mind to a calm state. The beauty of this type of meditation is that you while exerting, your mind gets diverted automatically into the present. It is beneficial for those persons who are action-oriented and cannot remain still to meditate. Apart from achieving the benefits of meditation they also remain physically fit as well.
5. Mantra Meditation
Mantra Meditation is one of the dominant tool used to meditate. The most common mantra is the”Om” as it is believed that the vibration produced by Om can spread positive energy. One of the primary goals of chanting mantras is to feel their vibrations and unite with the vibrations of your body. Chanting mantras have the potential to redirect thoughts, mood, emotions, and conscience.
6. Transcendental Meditation
Transcendental meditation is a unique form of meditation which involves repetition of mantras silently in mind. It declutters your mind which is occupied by the negative and useless thoughts and makes your mind to think in one direction with utmost clarity. With regular practice, one gets relief from chronic diseases, anxiety, stress, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. It helps to achieve the ultimate state of mind, i.e. happiness.
