Japanese Meditation Techniques

There are several key branches of meditation practiced in Japan. Some are traditionally Japanese while others are a hybrid of multiple cultural influences and religious traditions.

Meditation is a mental exercise in awareness and and breathing designed to free the mind of distractions. When the mind ceases to run its "mental ticker tape," a calming and clarifying effect is observed by practitioners. In Latin, meditation comes from two words--to think and to heal. Meditation has become popular the world over and is typically practiced in a seated position but can be practiced in any comfortable position.

One key Japanese meditation technique is known as Zazen. It is a method that centers on deepest contemplation and ritualistic discipline and is the heart of what is known as Zen meditation. Zazen also centers on a seated pose. It has been practiced for more than 2,000 years in China and Japan, though it was originally thought to have come from the India subcontinent.

Japan has a significant Buddhist population and the Buddhist traditions focusing on contemplation and reflection are used to calm and clear the human mind. Mahyana, a strand of Buddhism practiced in Japan, is known for ceremonial process meditation that incorporates incense, candles, flowers and other ritual objects specific and personal to the practitioner.

Gendai Reiki is a Japanese meditation system popularized by Mikao Usui that elevates and focuses on the transmission and channeling of energy through the body for healing, personal spiritual growth and mental clarity.

A hybrid of meditation focus and breathing and gentle movement yoga, Japanese yoga meditation is practiced in multiple positions with practitioners wearing loose clothing.