- Samatha Meditation: Also known as “concentration” meditation, Samatha aims to develop a focused and calm mind. It typically involves focusing on a single object, such as the breath, a visual image, or a mantra, and developing a steady, unbroken concentration on that object. This practice is often used as a foundation for other forms of meditation.
- Vipassana Meditation: Also known as “insight” meditation, Vipassana aims to develop insight into the true nature of reality. It involves observing the changing nature of experience, including physical sensations, thoughts, and emotions, without judgment or attachment. This practice can lead to greater awareness, acceptance, and wisdom.
- Metta Meditation: Also known as “loving-kindness” meditation, Metta aims to cultivate feelings of love, compassion, and goodwill towards oneself and others. It typically involves silently reciting phrases such as “May I be happy, may you be happy, may all beings be happy,” while focusing on the feeling of warmth and openness in the heart.
- Zen Meditation: Also known as “zazen,” Zen meditation emphasizes direct awareness and non-conceptual understanding. It typically involves sitting in a specific posture, focusing on the breath, and letting go of any thoughts or distractions that arise. This practice can lead to greater clarity, calmness, and insight.
- Tonglen Meditation: Tonglen is a Tibetan meditation practice that aims to cultivate compassion and empathy towards oneself and others. It involves visualizing taking in the suffering of others on the in-breath, and sending out love and compassion on the out-breath. This practice can help develop a greater sense of interconnectedness and altruism.
- Walking Meditation: Walking meditation involves walking slowly and mindfully, paying attention to the sensations of the body and the environment. It can be a good alternative for those who find sitting meditation uncomfortable or challenging.
- Body Scan Meditation: Body scan meditation involves bringing awareness to different parts of the body, starting at the feet and moving up to the head. It can help develop a greater sense of bodily awareness and relaxation, and can be useful for those who struggle with anxiety or stress.