Vipassana Meditation (Mindfulness Meditation)
What it is: With Vipassana, the purpose is not to engage in the thoughts that come, but to be present in the moment by simply observing these thoughts. By doing so, it gives you the opportunity to think about why you’re thinking about them. The purpose of Vipassana is to become aware, or mindful, of your thoughts. Try this Vipassana video on Youtube.
Who should try it: The over-analyzer who has difficulty honing in on just one thought at a time.
Loving-Kindness Meditation
What it is: The practice is done while sitting with your eyes closed. It revolves around learning how to rid yourself of any self-doubt. After you cultivate personal unconditional love, you will be able to wish love to all those around you. This is a hard practice to perfect, but once you find the ability to truly love yourself, you’ll radiate positivity to others wherever you go. We like this meditation on Developing Self -Compassion by Tara Brach.
Who should try it: Anyone in need of a self-love boost.
Transcendental/Vedic Meditation
What it is: Transcendence means “effortlessly settling the mind into silence” and is a very powerful key to unlocking your inner potential for self-healing and personal growth. TM or Vedic Meditation is not concentration or visualization, nor is it control or mindfulness. This form of meditation uses a mantra (or sound) upon which to gently and innocently rest our attention. This simply allows the mind the freedom to follow its natural tendency towards happiness, thence settling spontaneously into silence.
Who should try it: Anyone in need of peace and relaxation, both mentally and physically.
Kundalini Meditation
What it is: Kundalini is a yogic meditation style that opens your bodies chakras or energy centers. The neuroscientist and leading lecturer, researcher, author and expert on change, the brain, mind & human potential, Dr. Joe Dispenza uses the same Kundalini breathing technique. The poses promote the ability to extend your energy from the base of your spine all the way to your mind and ‘beyond’. With both proper breath and specific movements, Kundalini will teach you how to disengage and focus your mind. Swap your spin class with this practice a few days a week to relieve some stress and create positive neural pathways. My very dear Kundalini teacher Shamrang Kaur is based in London. Luckily you can watch her video on Optimal Health here.
Who should try it: Anyone who is looking for a reboot.
Qigong Meditation
What it is: A style rooted in martial arts and Chinese medicine, the purpose of this practice is to focus on both your breath and posture simultaneously in order to gain full bodily control. Following this technique allows energy flow to increase throughout your body. Take a break from counting your miles and putting your body through repetitive muscle stress every once in awhile to partake in Qigong meditation. You will be in full sync with your body and the physical benefits that may come are an added bonus.
Who should try it: The workout junkie who hits the gym and tries every class for the endorphin rush as much as the perfect physique.
Concentration Meditation
What it is: The idea here is to focus on one thing, which is a specific word- mantra. Think the commonly used “om” (which is the universe’s most elemental sound), a candle flame, or your breath. Throughout the practice, the goal is to be able to keep your concentration on this one thing alone and to return your mind back to it every time it starts to wander. After you free your mind from outside thoughts or distractions, you’ll be able to reach a state of pure, calm, and carefree bliss. Set a timer for 3-5 minutes and try using the mantra “So hum” meaning “I am”.
Who should try it: The novice or meditation non-believer.
As you can see there are many types of meditation, all extremely beneficial. Take a moment to explore your needs and see which type works for you! Even better, try out a variety of styles until you find the one you love.
Live consciously! x