🧘♂️ What is Meditation?
Meditation is a mental practice where a person trains attention and awareness, often to achieve a calm, clear, and stable mind. It has roots in ancient spiritual traditions but is now widely used for mental health, stress reduction, and self-awareness.
🌱 Simple Definition:
Meditation is the art of quieting the mind to understand oneself and the present moment.
🧠 Core Elements:
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Focus – on breath, a word (mantra), sound, or an object.
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Awareness – observing thoughts and feelings without judgment.
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Stillness – mental and often physical stillness.
🕉️ Types of Meditation:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Mindfulness | Watching thoughts & sensations non-judgmentally. |
| Concentration | Focusing on one thing (breath, candle, mantra). |
| Loving-Kindness (Metta) | Generating feelings of compassion and love. |
| Transcendental | Using mantras to transcend thought. |
| Zen (Zazen) | Seated stillness, often with breath focus. |
| Movement | Through yoga, tai chi, or walking. |
💡 Benefits (Science-Backed):
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Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression
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Improves focus, memory, and emotional health
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Lowers blood pressure and enhances sleep
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Builds self-awareness and empathy
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Promotes inner peace and resilience
🕰️ How to Start (Beginner-Friendly):
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Sit comfortably with eyes closed.
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Focus on your breath – inhale, exhale.
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When your mind wanders, gently bring it back.
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Start with just 5 minutes daily.