Meditation
Meditation is the practice of concentrated focus upon a sound, object, visualisation, breath, movement, or attention itself in order to increase awareness of the present moment, reduce stress, promote relaxation and enhance personal and spiritual growth.
Meditation has been practised for millenia. It was originally intended to develop spiritual understanding, awareness and direct experience of ultimate reality. The many different religious traditions in the world have given rise to a rich variety of meditative practices, however religion does not have to be the stimulus to practise meditation – it is a great relaxant and de-stress tool too.
There are two main types of meditation. These are concentration meditation and mindfulness meditation. Concentration meditation practices involve focusing attention on a single object. Objects of meditation can include the breath, a mental or physical image, a movement pattern, or a sound, word, or phrase that is repeated silently (mantra). The purpose of concentrative practices is to learn to focus one’s attention or develop concentration. When thoughts or emotions arise, the meditator gently directs the mind back to the original object of concentration.
Mindfulness meditation practices involve becoming aware of the entire field of attention. The meditator is instructed to be aware of all thoughts, feelings, perceptions or sensations as they arise in each moment. Mindfulness meditation practices are enhanced by the meditator’s ability to focus and quiet the mind. Many meditation practices are a blend of these two forms.
