Meditation refers to a form of mental training practice that enables the practitioner to become aware of certain mental processes, improve focus and experience relaxation.<\/strong> The essence of this practice is to acquire a state of thoughtless, mindful awareness. Mindfulness 1<\/a><\/sup> Keng, S. L., Smoski, M. J., & Robins, C. J. (2011). Effects of mindfulness on psychological health: a review of empirical studies. Clinical psychology review, 31(6), 1041\u20131056. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.cpr.2011.04.006 )<\/a>) enables us to bring our attention to the present moment and be aware of what we are doing & where we are, without allowing external factors to make us feel overwhelmed. Practicing meditation on a regular basis enables us to develop heightened awareness and become more mindful in life. One 2006 study 1<\/a><\/sup><\/span> Deshmukh V. D. (2006). Neuroscience of meditation. TheScientificWorldJournal, 6, 2239\u20132253. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1100\/tsw.2006.353<\/a> <\/span> states that it is an art of being alert and calm in the present moment without struggling to change yourself. It is a process that trains our mind and body to –<\/p>\n\n\n\n Typically, meditation is practiced, either independently or in a group setting, in a seated position, with closed eyes and deep, controlled breathing. Contrary to popular belief, it is not about controlling or turning off our thoughts and feelings. It is simply about observing them in a non-judgemental way without reacting to or getting attached to them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to a 2019 study 2<\/a><\/sup> Matko, K., & Sedlmeier, P. (2019). What Is Meditation? Proposing an Empirically Derived Classification System. Frontiers in psychology, 10, 2276. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.02276<\/a> <\/span> , meditation is considered as an umbrella term including an array of diverse practices. It is \u201ca family of self-regulation practices that focus on training attention and awareness to bring mental processes under greater voluntary control and thereby foster general mental well-being and development and\/or specific capacities such as calm, clarity, and concentration,\u201d explains the study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is a contemplative, multi-generational practice that empowers the practitioner to focus on a single thought, idea, sound, experience or object with the objective of gaining better psychological well-being, improved existential insight and greater spiritual awareness. According to a 2014 study 3<\/a><\/sup> Goyal, M., Singh, S., Sibinga, E. M., Gould, N. F., Rowland-Seymour, A., Sharma, R., Berger, Z., Sleicher, D., Maron, D. D., Shihab, H. M., Ranasinghe, P. D., Linn, S., Saha, S., Bass, E. B., & Haythornthwaite, J. A. (2014). Meditation programs for psychological stress and well-being: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA internal medicine, 174(3), 357\u2013368. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1001\/jamainternmed.2013.13018<\/a> <\/span> , \u201cMeditative techniques are categorized as emphasizing mindfulness, concentration, and automatic self-transcendence.\u201d The study adds that it can help to reduce psychological stress and have proved to improve anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. This spiritual and psychological practice can also improve health-related quality of life, claims the study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Studies 4<\/a><\/sup> Jaseja H. (2009). Definition of meditation: Seeking a consensus. Medical hypotheses, 72(4), 483. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.mehy.2008.11.015<\/a> <\/span> have observed that this mind and body technique is a \u201ccomplex neural practice\u201d that can alter the brain\u2019s neurochemistry and neurophysiology leading to changed neurocognitive functions 5<\/a><\/sup>Lardone, A., Liparoti, M., Sorrentino, P., Rucco, R., Jacini, F., Polverino, A., Minino, R., Pesoli, M., Baselice, F., Sorriso, A., Ferraioli, G., Sorrentino, G., & Mandolesi, L. (2018). Mindfulness Meditation Is Related to Long-Lasting Changes in Hippocampal Functional Topology during Resting State: A Magnetoencephalography Study. Neural plasticity, 2018, 5340717. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1155\/2018\/5340717<\/a> <\/span> & behavior. Hence, in the long run, meditation can change the way we think and behave by promoting positive emotions and mood. According to research, this practice mainly involves three primary criteria –<\/p>\n\n\n\n The researchers observed that meditation may also involve the following aspects –<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apart from these, the practice and art of meditation mainly focuses the following three mental elements –<\/p>\n\n\n\n It strengthens our awareness and enables us to be more mindful by keeping our attention in the present moment, without getting attached to anything or distracted by something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Concentration is another crucial aspect of this practice. It helps to direct our attention towards a specific idea, experience or object, whether external or internal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It allows us to observe internal and external experiences without judging or getting involved in them. It helps us observe the present moment as it unfolds without getting distracted by or attached to a specific thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some additional characteristics of this mind-body technique may include the following –<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is a 2,500 year old mental practice that has been prevalent in different religions and cultures, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism etc. It is a consciousness-changing technique which trains the mind to become more alert and aware so that we can connect better with our inner self. Meditation is about observing your thoughts and feelings, not about blocking them out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n During the practice, the practitioner simply becomes aware of the thoughts that arise, acknowledges them and allows them to pass without getting involved or attached. When someone meditates, their mind is focused inwards as it calms and relaxes. Although initially some internal chatter may be present, with practice one can learn to control their internal distractions and enjoy a deeper, more focused meditative experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although it is widely seen as a religious or spiritual practice, meditation can be practiced for individual reasons, such as to promote positive moods and emotions, reduce stress and anxiety, relaxation, better sleeping habits or overall better physical, emotional and mental wellbeing 6<\/a><\/sup> Keng, S. L., Smoski, M. J., & Robins, C. J. (2011). Effects of mindfulness on psychological health: a review of empirical studies. Clinical psychology review, 31(6), 1041\u20131056. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.cpr.2011.04.006<\/a> <\/span> . In fact, it is also used as a therapy technique 7<\/a><\/sup> Bogart G. (1991). The use of meditation in psychotherapy: a review of the literature. American journal of psychotherapy, 45(3), 383\u2013412. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1176\/appi.psychotherapy.1991.45.3.383<\/a> <\/span> to relieve symptoms of different mental health conditions. \u201cMeditation may promote the diminishment of psychiatric illness, character change, and the resolution of neurosis,\u201d adds a 2008 study 8<\/a><\/sup> McGee M. (2008). Meditation and psychiatry. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa. : Township<\/span>, 5(1), 28\u201341<\/a>. [\/mfn] .<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another 2015 study 9<\/a><\/sup> Sharma H. (2015). Meditation: Process and effects. Ayu, 36(3), 233\u2013237. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4103\/0974-8520.182756<\/a> <\/span> explains that the word meditation is used loosely in the modern era, especially since it became popular in different Western nations, such as the United States. However, it basically refers to a wide array of diverse techniques, such as –<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThese techniques work at different levels such as the senses, mind, intellect, and emotions,\u201d adds the study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Several religious and spiritual practices involve meditation as a core element. Although most religions 10<\/a><\/sup> Montero-Marin, J., Perez-Yus, M. C., Cebolla, A., Soler, J., Demarzo, M., & Garcia-Campayo, J. (2019). Religiosity and Meditation Practice: Exploring Their Explanatory Power on Psychological Adjustment. Frontiers in psychology, 10, 630. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00630 <\/a><\/span> mainly include similar crucial meditational tenets and practices, each follow their own distinct objectives, teachings, practices, legends and symbols. Here are some of the major religions that practice different forms of this mental, physical and spiritual practice –<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vedic Hinduism is closely associated with meditative practices and it has been mentioned in several ancient Hindu texts such as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. Dhyana 11<\/a><\/sup> Srinivasan T. M. (2013). From meditation to dhyana. International journal of yoga, 6(1), 1\u20133. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4103\/0973-6131.105934<\/a> <\/span> is a form of Yoga practice that leads to \u201ca state of abiding calm.\u201d Moreover, various Hindu beliefs like Samadhi and Moksha are associated with this practice. According to a 2018 study 12<\/a><\/sup> Vago, D. R., & Zeidan, F. (2016). The brain on silent: mind wandering, mindful awareness, and states of mental tranquility. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1373(1), 96\u2013113. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/nyas.13171<\/a> <\/span> , \u201cMeditative concentration is sometimes referred to as \u2018one-pointedness\u2019 (Sanskrit: sam\u0101dhi).\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mediation forms one of the core aspects of the Noble Eightfold Path as laid down by Siddhartha Gautama or the Buddha. \u201cThe noble eightfold path and its focus on right mindfulness and right thinking are the corollary in Buddhist thought,\u201d states a 2013 study 13<\/a><\/sup> Aich T. K. (2013). Buddha philosophy and western psychology. Indian journal of psychiatry, 55(Suppl 2), S165\u2013S170. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4103\/0019-5545.105517 <\/a><\/span> . In Buddhism, one can reach enlightenment through this spiritual practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This religion is also closely associated with such practices. Jewish 14<\/a><\/sup> Schenker J. G. (2008). The beginning of human life : status of embryo. Perspectives in Halakha (Jewish Religious Law). Journal of assisted reproduction and genetics, 25(6), 271\u2013276. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s10815-008-9221-6<\/a> <\/span> meditation is primarily focused on calming the mind, gaining emotional insight, introspection, contemplation and visualization of mystical, ethical and philosophical ideas. In Judaism, this practice is believed to help practitioners gain better understanding of the Divine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Christianity involves various practices that can lead the practitioner into a meditative state. Although salvation can be achieved by Christians only through Christ, meditation can help one to connect with God and improve their spiritual worship. However, the meaning and purpose of this practice may be different in Christianity than in other Eastern religions. \u201cChristian meditation focuses individuals on their personal salvation through Jesus Christ and the loving works of God,\u201d explains a 2019 study 15<\/a><\/sup> Kopel, J., & Habermas, G. R. (2019). Neural Buddhism and Christian mindfulness in medicine. Proceedings (Baylor University. Medical Center), 32(2), 308\u2013310. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/08998280.2019.1581525<\/a> <\/span> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n For muslims, the purpose of meditational practices is to remember God or Allah. Dhikr or \u201cremembrance\u201d refers to certain Islamic devotional acts where a practitioner repeats certain prayers and phrases. Mur\u0101qabah 16<\/a><\/sup> Isgandarova N. (2019). Muraqaba as a Mindfulness-Based Therapy in Islamic Psychotherapy. Journal of religion and health, 58(4), 1146\u20131160. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s10943-018-0695-y<\/a> <\/span> is a mind-body technique in Sufism, a spiritual tradition of Islam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apart from these, many other religions may involve meditative practices as a way to engage in spirituality and gain enlightenment –<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read More About Religion Here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Meditation can be practiced in different forms, styles and types that enable us to gain increased awareness and inner peace. Here are some of the most common types of meditation –<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This technique allows the practitioner to be fully present in the moment and observe their own thoughts without reacting to it. \u201cMindfulness can be defined as nonjudgmental attention to the present moment.\u201d explains a 2019 study 17<\/a><\/sup> Zhang, Q., Wang, Z., Wang, X., Liu, L., Zhang, J., & Zhou, R. (2019). The Effects of Different Stages of Mindfulness Meditation Training on Emotion Regulation. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 13, 208. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fnhum.2019.00208<\/a> <\/span> . It helps us to shift our focus away from thinking about the past or future and brings our attention to what we are experiencing now without any judgment. Mindfulness is an essential part of this practice and is present in almost all other forms. It can help to control negative emotions and improve memory & focus. Studies 18<\/a><\/sup> Behan C. (2020). The benefits of meditation and mindfulness practices during times of crisis such as COVID-19. Irish journal of psychological medicine, 37(4), 256\u2013258. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1017\/ipm.2020.38<\/a> <\/span> have found that mindfulness practices can be beneficial during times of crisis such as COVID-19.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also known as Metta meditation, the primary objective of this technique is to develop an attitude of loving kindness towards others, including things that make us feel stressed. A 2015 study 19<\/a><\/sup> Hofmann, S. G., Petrocchi, N., Steinberg, J., Lin, M., Arimitsu, K., Kind, S., Mendes, A., & Stangier, U. (2015). Loving-Kindness Meditation to Target Affect in Mood Disorders: A Proof-of-Concept Study. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2015, 269126. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1155\/2015\/269126<\/a> <\/span> explains \u201cLoving-kindness meditation (LKM) is a traditional meditation practice directly oriented toward enhancing unconditional and positive emotional states of kindness towards oneself and others.\u201d A person can cultivate acceptance, love, compassion and kindness for themselves and others by chanting phrases with positive intentions, according to research 20<\/a><\/sup> Kearney, D. J., Malte, C. A., McManus, C., Martinez, M. E., Felleman, B., & Simpson, T. L. (2013). Loving-kindness meditation for posttraumatic stress disorder: A pilot study. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 26(4), 426-434. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/jts.21832<\/a> <\/span>. It can help to promote positive emotions 21<\/a><\/sup> Zeng, X., Chiu, C. P., Wang, R., Oei, T. P., & Leung, F. Y. (2015). The effect of loving-kindness meditation on positive emotions: a meta-analytic review. Frontiers in psychology, 6, 1693. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2015.01693<\/a> <\/span> and reduce resentment, stress, anger, frustration etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also known as the body scan technique, this form requires that the practitioner to gradually mentally scan their body from their toes to the top of their head, especially in areas where they hold stress. The objective is to identify the stress in the body and release it to experience relaxation. The practitioner may be required to tense their muscles and then relax them to experience progressive relaxation. The goal of progressive relaxation is \u201cto increase sensations of physical relaxation,\u201d explains a 2010 study 22<\/a><\/sup> Feldman, G., Greeson, J., & Senville, J. (2010). Differential effects of mindful breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and loving-kindness meditation on decentering and negative reactions to repetitive thoughts. Behaviour research and therapy, 48(10), 1002\u20131011. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.brat.2010.06.006<\/a> <\/span> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vipassana is an ancient 23<\/a><\/sup> Chiesa A. (2010). Vipassana meditation: systematic review of current evidence. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 16(1), 37\u201346. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1089\/acm.2009.0362<\/a> <\/span> meditative practice. It is a gentle, observation-based silent technique that focuses on self-exploration and understanding the connection between our mind and body. Vipassana means to observe things as they are. It is one of the most controlled forms of meditation as the practice is transferred from teacher to student, according to Buddhist principles. According to a 2001 study 24<\/a><\/sup> Al-Hussaini, A., Dorvlo, A. S., Antony, S. X., Chavan, D., Dave, J., Purecha, V., Al-Rahbi, S., & Al-Adawi, S. (2001). Vipassana meditation:: A naturalistic, preliminary observation in Muscat. Journal for scientific research. Medical sciences, 3(2), 87\u201392<\/a>. <\/span> , it helps to control our tendency to dwell on the past, worry about the future, and lowers expectations, regrets & anxiety. It also helps the \u201cparticipant to remain in the \u2018here and now\u2019 and achieve relative mental tranquillity.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also known as Zazen, this practice is mainly a Japanese S\u014dt\u014d Zen Buddhist practice that is learned from a teacher as it includes multiple postures & steps. It is considered to be a form of open monitoring 25<\/a><\/sup> Alda, M., Puebla-Guedea, M., Rodero, B., Demarzo, M., Montero-Marin, J., Roca, M., & Garcia-Campayo, J. (2016). Zen meditation, Length of Telomeres, and the Role of Experiential Avoidance and Compassion. Mindfulness, 7, 651\u2013659. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s12671-016-0500-5<\/a> <\/span> meditation. It is typically practiced by sitting in a comfortable position, bringing your attention to your breath and being mindful about your thoughts. The word Zen 26<\/a><\/sup> Hauswald, A., \u00dcbelacker, T., Leske, S., & Weisz, N. (2015). What it means to be Zen: marked modulations of local and interareal synchronization during open monitoring meditation. NeuroImage, 108, 265\u2013273. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.neuroimage.2014.12.065<\/a> <\/span> is derived from the Sanskrit term \u201cdhyan\u201d which means being in a meditative state. Studies 27<\/a><\/sup> Lusnig, L., Radach, R., Mueller, C. J., & Hofmann, M. J. (2020). Zen meditation neutralizes emotional evaluation, but not implicit affective processing of words. PloS one, 15(2), e0229310. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1371\/journal.pone.0229310<\/a> <\/span> show that \u201cZen meditators showed larger openness to experience and less need for achievement and performance.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is a spiritual technique that enables the practitioner to rise above or transcend their present state of being. This can result in increased mindfulness and spiritual experiences. The practice involves repeating certain phrases or mantras that are determined by the teacher based on different factors. It is similar to Vedic meditation. According to a 2008 study 28<\/a><\/sup> Yunesian, M., Aslani, A., Vash, J. H., & Yazdi, A. B. (2008). Effects of Transcendental Meditation on mental health: a before-after study. Clinical practice and epidemiology in mental health : CP & EMH, 4, 25. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1186\/1745-0179-4-25<\/a> <\/span> , this technique helps the practitioner to experience relaxation and \u201cmay improve mental health of young adult population especially in the areas of somatisation and anxiety 29<\/a><\/sup> Orme-Johnson, D. W., & Barnes, V. A. (2014). Effects of the transcendental meditation technique on trait anxiety: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 20(5), 330\u2013341. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1089\/acm.2013.0204<\/a> <\/span> , and this effect seems to be independent of age, sex and marital status.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yoga involves several meditative techniques that can improve both our mental and physical wellbeing. It is an ancient Indian practice that involves mental, physical and spiritual disciplines and is aimed at calming and controlling the mind. Kundalini yoga 30<\/a><\/sup> Shannahoff-Khalsa D. S. (2004). An introduction to Kundalini yoga meditation techniques that are specific for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 10(1), 91\u2013101. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1089\/107555304322849011<\/a> <\/span> is a popular form of meditation that includes various techniques like deep breathing, body movements & postures, singing and chanting mantras repeatedly. It can help to reduce stress 31<\/a><\/sup> Garc\u00eda-Sesnich, J. N., Flores, M. G., R\u00edos, M. H., & Aravena, J. G. (2017). Longitudinal and Immediate Effect of Kundalini Yoga on Salivary Levels of Cortisol and Activity of Alpha-Amylase and Its Effect on Perceived Stress. International journal of yoga, 10(2), 73\u201380. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4103\/ijoy.IJOY_45_16<\/a> <\/span> , anxiety 32<\/a><\/sup> Gabriel, M. G., Curtiss, J., Hofmann, S. G., & Khalsa, S. (2018). Kundalini Yoga for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: An Exploration of Treatment Efficacy and Possible Mechanisms. International journal of yoga therapy, 28(1), 97\u2013105. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.17761\/2018-00003<\/a> <\/span> , depression, cognitive decline 33<\/a><\/sup> Eyre, H. A., Siddarth, P., Acevedo, B., Van Dyk, K., Paholpak, P., Ercoli, L., St. Cyr, N., Yang, H., Khalsa, D. S., & Lavretsky, H. (2017). A randomized controlled trial of Kundalini yoga in mild cognitive impairment. International Psychogeriatrics, 29(4), 557-567. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1017\/s1041610216002155<\/a> <\/span> , chronic pain and improve mental health. \u201cThe ancient system of Kundalini yoga includes a vast array of meditation techniques and many were discovered to be specific for treating the psychiatric disorders as we know them today,\u201d explains a 2004 study 34<\/a><\/sup> Shannahoff-Khalsa D. S. (2004). An introduction to Kundalini yoga meditation techniques that are specific for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 10(1), 91\u2013101. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1089\/107555304322849011<\/a> <\/span> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also referred to as Om meditation, this type of technique 35<\/a><\/sup> Innes, K. E., Selfe, T. K., Kandati, S., Wen, S., & Huysmans, Z. (2018). Effects of Mantra Meditation versus Music Listening on Knee Pain, Function, and Related Outcomes in Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis: An Exploratory Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT). Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2018, 7683897. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1155\/2018\/7683897<\/a> <\/span> requires the practitioner to chant a word or syllable in a repeated manner with the intention of focusing their mind. However, it is not similar to reciting an affirmation to persuade oneself. Mantra is a Sanskrit term meaning a word that is chanted for spiritual purposes. It helps to focus the mind, boost concentration and improve mindfulness. The chosen mantra may not have any meaning or relevance. One 2018 study 36<\/a><\/sup> Lynch, J., Prihodova, L., Dunne, P. J., O’Leary, C., Breen, R., Carroll, \u00c1., Walsh, C., McMahon, G., & White, B. (2018). Mantra meditation programme for emergency department staff: a qualitative study. BMJ open, 8(9), e020685. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1136\/bmjopen-2017-020685<\/a> <\/span> found that this form of meditative practice can be considered as \u201ca viable tool\u201d for improving awareness, attention, emotion regulation, ability to cope with stress and better mental wellbeing 37<\/a><\/sup> Lynch, J., Prihodova, L., Dunne, P. J., Carroll, \u00c1., Walsh, C., McMahon, G., & White, B. (2018). Mantra meditation for mental health in the general population: A systematic review. European Journal of Integrative Medicine, 23, 101-108. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.eujim.2018.09.010 <\/a><\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\n .Apart from these, there are many other forms of meditative practices such as –<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Regular meditation offers an array of psychological, physical and emotional health benefits. <\/strong>This habitual process not only helps to train our mind, heighten our awareness and help us relax, it can also enable us to better cope with daily stressors and different mental and physical illnesses. Some of the most prominent and proven health benefits of this mind & body practice and mentioned below –<\/p>\n\n\n\n Research 38<\/a><\/sup> Lardone, A., Liparoti, M., Sorrentino, P., Rucco, R., Jacini, F., Polverino, A., Minino, R., Pesoli, M., Baselice, F., Sorriso, A., Ferraioli, G., Sorrentino, G., & Mandolesi, L. (2018). Mindfulness Meditation Is Related to Long-Lasting Changes in Hippocampal Functional Topology during Resting State: A Magnetoencephalography Study. Neural plasticity, 2018, 5340717. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1155\/2018\/5340717 <\/a><\/span> has observed that meditation can help to change the structure of the brain in the long run. \u201cNeuroimaging studies have shown that the brain connectivity changes in meditators,\u201d add the researchers. This can help to improve cognitive functions and reduce age-related brain degeneration. Mindfulness practices also help to increase regional gray matter density 39<\/a><\/sup> H\u00f6lzel, B. K., Carmody, J., Vangel, M., Congleton, C., Yerramsetti, S. M., Gard, T., & Lazar, S. W. (2011). Mindfulness practice leads to increases in regional brain gray matter density. Psychiatry research, 191(1), 36\u201343. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.pscychresns.2010.08.006<\/a> <\/span> in the brain, which improves emotion regulation, perspective taking, self-referential processing, memory and learning. Another 2014 study \n
Aspects Of Meditation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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1. Awareness<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Focus<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Observation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Understanding Meditation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Meditation In Religion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Meditation](\"https:\/\/mind.help\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Meditation-In-Religion.jpg\")
1. Hinduism<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Buddhism<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Judaism<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Christianity<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Islam<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Types Of Meditation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Mindfulness meditation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Loving kindness meditation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Progressive relaxation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Vipassana Meditation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Zen Meditation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Transcendental meditation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. Yoga<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. Mantra meditation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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How Meditation Affects Health<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Changes brain structure<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n