Types of Meditation

There are different types of meditation, our practice is centers on Mindfulness Meditation and Walking Meditation but practioners often use other forms of meditation depending on their needs. Here are a few examples of the different types of meditation

Mindfulness Meditation - also called vipassana or insight meditation

This form of meditation focuses on becoming deeply aware of what is here right now. You start by counting your breath, and then move your attention to the thoughts going through your mind, the feelings in your body, and even the sounds and sights around you. The key is to watch without judging or analyzing, accepting everything just as it is.

Walking Meditation

This form of meditation is a wonderful method that can bring the body and mind in touch with the earth. As you walk pay attention to every movement of the body - feel your feet touch the earth, the sun on your cheek, the call of the morning wren. If you are just beginning walking meditation, focus on taking one step on the in breath and one step on the out breath. As you create a foundation of walking meditation you can increase the ratio of steps to breathe.

Counting the Breath

Sit in a comfortable position and begin counting your breath. Inhale from the belly and on the exhale softly say to yourself "one", for the next breath do the same thing and softly say to yourself "two" and continue until you reach ten and then begin counting again. As your mind wanders, gently re-focus your thoughts back to counting. This is a great practice for beginners and experienced practioners a like.

Emptying Your Mind

This involves emptying of all thoughts from your mind and it sounds a lot easier than it is in practice. Sit in a comfortable position, often in a "full lotus" or cross-legged position. Begin with counting your breath until you obtain a deep relaxed state and then let the mind go silent on its own. It can be difficult but as thoughts arise, greet them and then let them fade into the silence.

Gathas/Sutra Meditation

Many people find it easier to focus on a gatha or a sutra while meditating. You begin with counting the breath and then once the mind and the body are in a relaxed state, you can recite a gathas - some examples of gathas. Some people find it helpful to recite a sutra. The Sutra on the Full Awareness of Breathing is a wonderful discourse to focus on while meditating.

Our Teachers | Five Mindfulness Trainings | Resource Center