(also referred to as...)
Mantra Meditation, Mindfulness Meditation, Spiritual Meditation, Transcendental Meditation, TM
Introduction
Meditation comes in many forms and its benefits can be realized on a physical, psychological, and emotional level. This relaxation technique allows you to reconnect with yourself and explore aspects of your identity you may not always engage with. Above all, meditation is a highly rewarding experience.
Meditation does not have to be religious or spiritual in nature, as is the case with spiritual meditation, but can be something as simple as focusing on a word or phrase, such as "I am at peace", or "calm", or "relax", or warm. This approach is known as transcendental meditation (TM) or mantra meditation. Some people also choose to visualize on a significant person, place, or event in their life. Others simply focus on their breath, referred to as mindfulness meditation.
Meditation is most successful when practiced regularly. Consider starting or ending your day in this manner and you will find yourself in a more consistently peaceful state of mind. Further, the world around you might even begin to positively change as well.
The Relaxation Response
The relaxation response is a physical state highly conducive to healing and is the exact opposite of the stress response, which overworks your body and strains its resources. By slowing yourself down, relaxing your mind, and engaging in visualization techniques, you enter the state of relaxation response where highly effective healing can take place.
During this time, your breathing rate slows and your blood pressure drops. Your muscles relax and you brain waves change from the faster beta waves to the slower alpha, delta, and theta waves that accompany this relaxed state. When your meditation is complete, you will find yourself with more energy and vitality and you can use this approach to more effectively meet the daily demands of life.
Complementary Practices
Yoga is often performed prior to meditation as a pathway towards calming, slowing down the mind, and preparing yourself for a meditative state.
