Meditation techniques, like meditation itself, tend to be relatively simple. Following is a brief list of ten of the most commonly practiced ones. You can use one technique exclusively, experiment with several techniques, or try one for a few months and then switch to a different one.
Repeating a meaningful word or phrase, known as a mantra
Following or counting your breaths
Paying attention to the sensations in your body
Cultivating love, compassion, forgiveness, and other healing emotions
Concentrating on a geometric shape or other simple visual object
Visualizing a peaceful place or a healing energy or light
Reflecting upon inspirational or sacred writings
Gazing at a picture of a holy being or saint
Contemplating the beauty to be found in nature, art, or music
Bringing mindful awareness to the present moment
Changing techniques frequently makes it hard to reap the full range of benefits you can realize by using a consistent technique for a period of time — a few weeks to a month at least.
