On exploring different types of meditation.
For the month of August, we continue the exploration on meditation (side note: I can't believe we are already in the month of August!). The prior two months we discussed the benefits of meditation that science has proven, along with some pro-tips to set yourself up for success. Different practices resonate with different people, so for this next part in our meditation series, I want to share different types of meditation.
Below are a few different types of meditation:
Breath awareness: this practice involves focusing on your breath. There are several ways to do this... It could look like counting your breath, focusing on the lift and lower of the navel center as you breathe, or even concentrating on just the exhale. These are just a few examples, but know that your breath is a link to the present moment, so it's a really lovely way to bear witness to your existence.
Mantra/Japa meditation: this practice involves repeating a phrase over and over. "So hum" is a popular mantra which translates to "I am that." Truly it's a matter of finding a phrase that resonates with you and what is currently happening in your life, and working to embody that energy. You sit with the phrase and allow it to be a focal point for your meditation practice.
Body scan: this practice utilizes the sensations in the body as the object of attention. As you make your way through different body parts, acknowledging what is happening, and then working to soften and relax. This is a powerful way to work to release stress in the body.
Loving-kindness/Metta Meditation: this practice is used to strengthen feelings of compassion, kindness and acceptance toward oneself and others. It involves opening the mind to receive love from others and then sending well wishes to loved ones, friends, acquaintances and all living beings.
As you "try on" these different styles of meditation, it might require a bit of trial and error as you explore what works for you. This also can change and evolve based on what's happening in your life. I suggest sitting with a practice for a minimum of a 40 day period and see what happens. If it's not working, you let it go and try something else. I can't wait to hear about how your practice expands. Happy meditating.
In love, light + with gratitude,
Nicole