Effects of Four Different Types of Meditation
Meditation has real practical benefits for your body and mind , but there are many types you can try. Knowing the specific effects of each of these popular types of meditation can help you narrow down which issues may be best for you.
The study, published in the journal Mindfulness, tracked 229 participants over a 9-month period when they first learned and practiced meditation. In general, the participants felt more energized and focused after practicing the meditation, but each type also had different effects.
- Breathing Meditation : When you focus on your breathing . This is a good foundation for developing other types of meditation. This type of meditation improves your focus and your ability to be less distracted by thoughts.
- Body scan : Move from head to toes, focusing on one part of the body at a time. Raises your awareness of your body and how you feel about it. It can also reduce your negative thoughts in general.
- Loving-kindness : Start by focusing on the warm feelings you have for your loved one, and then spread that feeling to others in your life, including those you have negative feelings for. Increases positive thoughts and feelings of warmth towards others.
- Observing thought : Observing thoughts as they arise, labeling or recognizing them, and then moving forward. Helps you become more aware of your thoughts in general and less distracted by them.
None of these results come as much of a surprise, but if you have something specific that you would like to work on through meditation, such as strengthening your positive thoughts and feelings towards others or more intimate contact with your own body Choosing the right type of meditation can quickly lead you to your goal.
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