Although meditation has been around for thousands of years, it has gained tremendous traction recently as more people use it to manage stress and anxiety. Research shows that meditation can help reduce chronic pain and prevent chronic illnesses and heart diseases. If you are new to meditation, you probably want to know what meditation is and how it works. Here is your guide to meditation by Bucknell Primary School.

What is Meditation?
Meditation is an ancient practice that involves focusing your mind and attention for some time. Effective meditation also involves techniques that connect the body and the mind. When you meditate regularly, you are likely to accept difficult situations and appreciate your surrounding. It can also help you to overcome stress and improve your immunity. 
 

Types of Meditation
Read on to discover the various forms of meditation.
 

Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation involves focusing your mind and attention on your thoughts. You can practice this kind of meditation anywhere. 
 

Spiritual Meditation
Spiritual meditation involves focusing your thoughts, sensations, and emotions on a higher power, such as Christian contemplative prayers, Jewish kabbalistic, etc. You can practice spiritual meditation at home or your preferred place of worship.
 

Guided Meditation
With guided meditation, also known as visualization, you have to focus on the mental pictures of situations that help you relax. A teacher usually leads a guided meditation. 
 

Focused Meditation
With focused meditation, you have to use all your sensations to concentrate on your impulses,  breath, and surrounding. You can practice focused meditation at home or in your preferred outdoor spots. 
 

Yoga Meditation
Yoga meditation involves concentrating your thoughts on controlled breathing exercises to calm your mind and improve flexibility. 
 

Movement Meditation
Unlike yoga meditation, movement meditation involves concentrating on a movement like walking, gardening, Tai chi, ironing, painting, jogging, and more.
 

Metta Meditation
Metta Meditation, also known as loving-kindness meditation, involves wishing well to others. You can practice Metta meditation in a comfortable and relaxed position and recite specific phrases to evoke positive feelings.
 

Key Takeaway
Meditation is an ancient practice that helps you connect your soul, body, and mind. There are different types of meditation, including Metta meditation, visualization meditation, guided meditation, movement meditation, spiritual meditation, and mindfulness meditation.