Which meditation to choose?

If you're new to meditation , it can be hard to know where to start . You want to succeed, and you know that choosing the right or wrong technique can be both motivating and discouraging. We understand. We've compiled a list of techniques that might help you make your choices. As you go through the list, start with the one that seems most appropriate . Choose the meditation that appeals to you most, and when you think, "That's the one! That's the one I want to try!" you know you should start there. Now, if you don't immediately find the one that interests you, keep reading our recommendations .

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Focused attention meditation

Focused attention meditation is exactly what it sounds like. It involves concentrating on a specific aspect of your body or an external object. There are many things you can focus on. The main ones are your breath, your chakras , or even the sounds in the room. Who is it for? This type of meditation is ideal for those who want to reduce their anxiety or depression (or any other feeling of low energy), because focused attention meditation teaches us to turn away from pain and toward peace. It teaches us to let go of our anxiety. Many people suffer from generalized anxiety for most of their lives, as well as other disorders such as bulimia. Focusing on their breath has allowed them to overcome both. Focusing on peace helps release pain. Why? Because what you focus on increases and expands. Focusing on your anxiety increases your anxiety. Focusing on your depression increases your depression. You should focus instead on acceptance . Acceptance of yourself and your feelings. This happens naturally when you focus on the life force of your breath or the energy of your chakras—or even the sounds in the room. These are all forms of acceptance.

Guided meditation

Guided meditations involve listening to someone else speak to guide you through a particular meditation or toward a desired outcome. Types of guided meditations range from relaxation to manifestation . Finding one that works for you will really depend on what you hope to achieve in your life and practice. Who is guided meditation for? Honestly, everyone. There are guided meditations on just about any topic, as well as on every technique. They help you in that they allow you to stay focused on what you want to focus on, while guiding you through it again and again. You'll need to do some research to find the one that's right for you. Some people try different meditation techniques before finding the one that resonates best with them. Some teachers' guided meditations promise a connection with the mind , and many people do eventually experience this connection. Now, there really is a huge variety of meditation techniques available. Start by writing down your goals for your practice, then look for those specific goals and see if guided meditation can help you achieve them. Next, you can read reviews, critiques, and look for examples. Choose the ones that seem most relevant to you. Remember: nurture your intuition by trusting it and acting on it.

Meditation through singing

Chanting meditation is about action and vibration . The process is simple. You chant whatever you like—a sacred word, or a sound that feels right. The action keeps your mind occupied and active so you don't lose focus. It also connects you to a vibration, like the mantra OM, for example. Chanting OM resonates with this energy throughout your body, allowing you to feel the source within you. Who does this benefit? Active minds, such as those of you who suffer from attention deficit disorders. You can combine this with walking for more challenging cases. You can also chant after a difficult day of struggling to concentrate; it can help relax the mind . Chanting provides a profound sense of spirituality and connection with the divine. You can try it right now with the syllable OM. Say "OM" aloud. (It sounds more like "AUM." You can do a quick online search to find the correct pronunciation.) Slowly repeat each syllable for about 5 seconds, repeating the entire mantra for about 15 seconds . Be calm and mindful. Do this repeatedly for five minutes and notice the sensations you feel within yourself.

Walking meditation

Walking meditation is about being present. Notice your breath and your surroundings. This practice involves the act of walking deliberately and mindfully. It allows you to become aware of your body and the sensations you experience with each step. You should do this intentionally and in silence. You can also do it while walking with a partner. Be sure to stay calm and enjoy each other's company while focusing on your breath and your steps . Who is this for? It's beneficial for everyone. It's good for active minds and for others. You learn to be present in your breath and to become mindful in general. This is where real life begins. Starting your practice this way will help you build a good foundation. Incorporate this practice into your daily life. Be mindful when you eat. Be mindful when you work. Be mindful when you feed your baby or when you care for your children. Over time, you begin to notice the dramatic changes that occur in your life.

Mindfulness meditation

Finally, awareness. Mindfulness is becoming an observer of yourself . An observer of your surroundings. You practice by sitting and observing. When thoughts arise, you don't get involved in them. You relax and observe . Again and again, you relax and observe. You completely accept things as they are. Who is this for? Those who intend to achieve self-realization , as well as those suffering from negative emotions. Becoming the observer allows you to disconnect from life, to accept, and to observe. This is a fundamental requirement of awakening. The realization of who you are comes with the total acceptance of pain and chaos. This is the path that allows you to open yourself to new perspectives, including that of your sacred self , and to become healed. It is this meditation that leads us to self-realization. You can practice daily on a mat. The result? A complete understanding of who you are and who others are. Light, love, and peace . That's all. We hope these brief introductions will help you in your choices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey to meditation is personal, and there is no single answer to the question of which meditation to choose. It is an exploration of self and a search for inner peace. Start with what resonates most with you, whether it be focused attention meditation, guided meditation, chanting, walking, or mindfulness.

Whichever path you choose, remember that meditation is a journey of self-discovery, liberation from anxiety and pain, and acceptance of life as it is. Each of these techniques offers a path to serenity, self-knowledge, and love.

Explore, experiment, and find the one that resonates most with your inner self. With consistent practice, you will discover the profound benefits of meditation, and it will become a precious part of your daily life.

May your meditative journey bring you peace, clarity, and a profound sense of connection with yourself and the world around you. Happy meditating!