You’re probably familiar with the basics of meditation, even if you’ve never tried it before. The idea is to find a quiet place to sit or recline, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. As you inhale, you focus on the sensation of the air passing through your nose and lungs. As you exhale, you release any thoughts or distractions that come into your mind.

Different Types Of Meditation
Let’s discuss various types of meditation and which type of meditation is most effective below.
1. Mindfulness Meditation: What It Is?
Mindfulness meditation is one of the most popular types of meditation. It involves paying attention to the moment without judgment. This can be done by focusing on your breath or looking at objects in your environment.
It’s a way to connect with your thoughts and feelings and help you become more aware of your body and surroundings. Mindfulness meditation is a great way to start your day or to take a break during the day.
Best way to practice
If you’re new to mindfulness meditation, here are a few tips:
- Find a quiet place to relax and focus on your breath.
- Sit in a comfortable position with your spine straight.
- Close your eyes and focus on your breath.
- When your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath.
- Stay as long as you want, gradually increasing the time limit.
Also read : Benefits of Anulom Vilom Pranayama
2. Transcendental Meditation: Benefits and Techniques
Many different types of meditation exist, each with its unique benefits and techniques.
The goal of Transcendental Meditation is to achieve a state of “transcendence,” which is a deep state of relaxation and awareness. This can be achieved by Chanting mantra—a secret word or phrase—for a set amount of time.
TM has been shown to have many benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, and improving mental health, sleep quality and cardiovascular health. It’s also one of the most accessible types of meditation to learn and can be practiced anywhere.
3. Guided Meditation
Guided meditation is a recommended form of mental relaxation and mindfulness. It usually employs spoken words (either with music or other audio clips) to help the
the listener visualizes the desired outcome and find inner peace. Sometimes it features suggestions on how to think, feel or behave.
Another plus is that guided meditation can typically be done within a shorter time than other forms, usually ranging from 10-30 minutes.
Also Read: What is Hatha Yoga?
4. Vipassana Meditation: Origins and Benefits
Vipassana meditation is a practice that can offer insight into the true nature of reality beyond the illusions created by our assumptions and conditioning. In Vipassana, we learn to observe bodily sensations without judgment or attachment. Originating in India and taught by the Buddha, this ancient meditation technique has been practiced for thousands of years.
The benefits of Vipassana are significant:
- It helps practitioners become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and sensations.
- Gain a better sense of perspective on life.
- Develop more significant insights into how we’re feeling at any given moment.
- Build up an understanding of how we react to different situations.
- Ultimately attain more peace and tranquility.
5. Chakra Meditation: Exploring the Chakras Through Meditation
Chakra meditation is a unique way to explore and heal your energy centers through meditation. This meditation focuses on analyzing and unlocking the seven chakras, which are located along the body, running from the base of your spine to the top of your head.
The purpose of chakra meditation is to open and cleanse each chakra to allow energy to flow freely and without obstruction throughout your body.
Each chakra has its unique power, associated colors, sounds, and related physical and emotional states. You can start the session by visualizing each chakra and focusing on its color or sound.
Also Read: Pratyahara Yoga: Meaning, Definition, Sutras, Types and Benefits
6. Yoga Meditation: Connecting With the Body Through Asana and Pranayama
Yoga meditation includes connection with the body through asana, physical poses, pranayama, or breath control. This meditation is experienced when you focus on physical movement and breathing. It’s a meditative practice which focuses on connecting your mind to your body.
With yoga meditation, you can learn how to sit in stillness and be present with yourself.
- You can explore the inner workings of your body and mind.
- Understanding any aching sensations.
- Thoughts that arise and areas of tension, without feeling identified by them.

7. Breath Awareness Meditation: Rediscovering Your Breath Through Focus
Focused breathing, or breath awareness meditation, is about rediscovering your breath’s power. This meditation focuses on the physical experience of inhaling and exhaling consciously. You pay attention to your breath and work to focus on the present moment.
You can achieve calmness and clarity by focusing on this natural rhythm and becoming aware of your breathing. This is because focusing on your breathing helps clear your mind and brings you back to the present moment.
You can observe the physical sensation of each inhalation and exhalation or even count each breath if that helps you stay focused and centered.
This technique allows for deep relaxation, requiring no special tools or skills. All it needs is just you and your breath.
Also Read: Ujjayi Pranayama: Meaning, Teachings, Ideal Time, Steps & Benefits
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Winding Up
So, there you have it, your guide to the top seven types of meditation and how to do them. As you can see, there is a meditation technique for everyone, no matter your experience, comfort level, or goals.
The best way to begin your meditation journey is through breathing yoga asanas. Investing a few minutes every day to attain control over your breathing pattern is a great idea.
However, attaining more knowledge and proper techniques through an experienced yoga guru is even better. Online yoga courses are the most accessible way to learn various meditation techniques.Â