Meditation is a way to train your mind to get into a deeper state of awareness. Mediation is used as a way to focus on a single object or thought in order to train the mind. There are a vast number of meditation practices, each of which emphasizes its own goal. Mediation is also part of several religious practices as well as psychophysical disciplines.
Concentration Meditation
In concentration meditation, one holds one's attention to a particular object, prayer or mantra for a very long period of time. If the meditator's thoughts wander to other things, then the meditator has to regain focus and direct his or her full attention back to the object, prayer or mantra.
Staring at an object such as a candle flame or a yantra (Hindu spiritual geometric picture) also helps maintain concentration. There are three main ways to use visual aids in meditation. When you stare at an object for several minutes, close your eyes and try to recreate the image of the object in your mind's eye. Another strategy is to not concentrate on the object but to avoid distracting thoughts as well. The goal of this method is to simply 'be' with the object. Lastly, one can journey within an image. A traditional mandala or tarot card with gates and passageways works best. As you stare at the image, 'walk' inside the image with your mind's eye.
Breathing Meditation
In order to regain your focus, direct your attention to your breathing. As you breathe out, imagine that you are breathing out any distracting or negative thoughts. As you exhale, make sure that your stomach is in. As you inhale, make sure that your stomach is out. Focus on a single object, mantra or prayer.
Breath of Fire Meditation Technique: Sit in a straight posture. Relax your body, especially your jaw and mouth area and throat. Take a deep inhalation through your nose and snap your diaphragm out to exhale. As you do so, shoot out a small breath. Repeat this several times until you are energized. It is also helpful to visualize a fireball under your diaphragm that gradually spreads hot energy throughout your body. The breath of fire meditation technique is used to boost one's energy and only takes a few minutes to achieve.
Guided Meditation
Guided meditation is when your mind is taken on a joyous journey. A person or CD recording will speak and describe a delightful scene, moment, feeling or object. As you listen to the voice, follow it. The person's voice is relaxing and you may fall asleep. Falling asleep is beneficial, as your subconscious mind will be present and aware of what is being said.
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