8 Meditation Techniques to Try

Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness meditation may be one of the more challenging forms of meditation for meditation novices, but it is a rewarding form that brings many benefits, both for the beginner and for those who practice regularly.

For those just learning how to meditate, mindfulness meditation requires no props or preparation (no candles to light, mantras to choose, or techniques to learn); long-term practice can bring a calmer mind and less reactivity to stress.

The key feature of mindfulness meditation is a focus on the present moment. Rather than focusing on something outside of oneself, mindfulness meditation requires a focus on "now."

Walking Meditation

Learning how to meditate with a walking meditation is simple, and provides some of the relaxation benefits of exercise as well as the standard benefits of meditation.

The key to a walking meditation is not just the walking itself, of course, it's the frame of mind in which you walk. Walking meditations can be fast or slow, can be practiced with a clear mind or with the aid of music or a mantra. Walking meditation is especially useful for those who like to stay active and may feel stressed with the silence and stillness of some of the other methods, like mindfulness meditation.

Mantra Meditation

Mantra meditation is another simple technique for those who are new to meditation. It combines some of the benefits of positive affirmations with the benefits of meditation with the repetition of a single word or sound. Some people feel a little uncomfortable with the idea of repeating "om" or humming, but you can use whatever mantra you like.

As with walking meditation, the key ingredient with mantra meditation is the meditative state you achieve and not necessarily the mantra you use, though it's a good idea to choose a mantra you're comfortable with.

Mindfulness In Daily Life

Mindfulness can be cultivated in many ways throughout the day. Basically, staying fully present with whatever you are doing and maintaining a focus on the physical experience of the present moment can help you maintain mindfulness as you go through your day.

There are ways to cultivate mindfulness, and as you're learning how to meditate, try to cultivate mindfulness as well—it can help you practice meditation more easily, and can fit into a busy schedule relatively easily.

Chocolate Meditation

When you're looking at how to meditate, here's a relatively quick and savory technique to try. The chocolate meditation is a form of mindfulness meditation that's often used in mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) classes, is simple for beginners, engages several senses, and has a built-in reward of making the taste of chocolate feel more intense. Using dark chocolate for this exercise brings its own benefits. If you're looking for something simple and new, try the chocolate meditation.

Breathing Meditation

Breathing meditation is one of the most popular forms of meditation because of its ease and simplicity, as well as its convenience (breathing is always occurring, so it's a convenient anchor for meditation). The breath provides a natural focus that's unobtrusive, but always there, and creates a natural rhythm to get lost in.

You can practice breathing meditation for a few minutes, or for longer, and always find relaxation.

Bath Meditation

One soothing method for those looking at how to meditate is the bath meditation. A bath meditation combines the standard benefits of meditation with the benefits of a soothing, hot bath, which can relax tired muscles, provide a relaxing atmosphere, and allow a temporary feeling of escape from stressors.

Being in the water can also help you to stay awake, something that is important but sometimes challenging if you're learning how to meditate when tired. Try a bath meditation, and be clean, relaxed, and ready for bed (or a low-stress day) when you're finished.

Mini-Meditations

For those who feel they don't have time for full-length meditation sessions (20 minutes is a good average amount of time), or for those who would like to experience some of the benefits of meditation between longer sessions, mini-meditations (meditations around 5 minutes in length) are a great technique to try.

Mini-meditations are very simple and fit in well with even the busiest of schedules. Learn how to meditate in shorter bursts, and work up to longer sessions, or just use this technique for quick and convenient stress relief.