Based in Jamestown, Pa., Hannah Rice Myers has more than 10 years of experience as a freelance writer, specializing in the health industry. Many of her articles have appeared in newspapers, as well as "Curing Epilepsy: Hope Through Research." Rice Myers received her master's degree in nursing from Upstate Medical University in 2001.
Meditation is a cleansing of the spirit and the mind. Through various techniques, those who practice it are able to achieve deep levels of inner peace and a clarity of mind. Though many may envision sitting with their eyes closed and fingertips touching, there are also physical techniques that can be practiced as well. Knowing what is available and having a variety of methods to choose from allows one to explore and enjoy the world of meditation in ways they never knew they could.
Repeating a Mantra
This is one of the more basic techniques used in meditation. You will sit in a comfortable yet upright position with your eyes closed. To relax and focus your mind, you will repeat a mantra. This is simply one word of your choice that will help your mind stay focused, keeping other thoughts at bay. While repeating your mantra, you will be focusing also on your breathing; slowly, you will begin to relax both physically and mentally.
Meditation with Yoga
This is a more physical form of meditation, though still an effective method, as yoga and meditation are frequently used in combination. While performing yoga, all focus is given to the movement and postures. Focused breathing is combined with these movements, and this helps open up the channels through which all energy flows. All of these combined takes you into a state of mental and physical relaxation.
Focused Meditation
This technique is another form of sitting meditation, again, in an upright position with the eyes closed. While breathing slowly, focus your thoughts on one particular object. By doing this, you are not allowing any other thoughts into your mind; you are only allowing it to focus on one object. If your mind starts to wander, immediately find your focal point again and continue to concentrate on your breathing.
Zen Walking
This is another physical meditation technique that offers variety from the traditional sitting meditation positions. You will begin by standing with your feet slightly spread, keeping your back straight. Concentrate on your breathing while you make a relaxed fist with your left hand and put it on your heart. You will then cover it with your right hand. Your body should be relaxed as you look down at the ground and inhale. Then slowly lift your left heel off the ground, taking a step. As you place your left foot back down, be sure to place your heel down first and exhale as you do so. Repeat the process with your right foot, making sure to inhale as you lift your foot and exhale as you set it down.
Resources
