Meditation is a powerful tool. Whenever you’re feeling overworked, overwhelmed, or simply need a little headspace, you can utilize this practice. Now that you are on your Kundalini Yoga journey, you will start to dip your toes into the world of meditative activities.
Not all practices are created the same. The sheer beauty of meditation is that it comes in a rainbow-array of shapes and forms. If you are just starting out, you may not know where to begin with this approach. Luckily, we have you covered with the insights you need.
In the following guide, we will take a look at the different meditation styles within Kundalini Yoga and what makes each of them unique. As though that weren’t enough, we will also be delving into how you can pick the right style for your personality and daily practice.
The Main Types of Meditation
Are you unsure which meditative practice will suit your needs? Don’t let the names confuse you. Learning what each of them means is the first step toward your success. With that in mind, allow us to share a quick definition of each meditation with you below.
Guided Meditation
As the name suggests, guided meditation is when a teacher or leader takes you through the steps of the practice. You might encounter this in a class, for example, or as part of a course or retreat. You will need to listen to the teacher and follow them as you meditate.
Should you have trouble getting into the right mental state when you are meditating, you may find that this approach works for you. Since you will be following the actions of the whole class, you may find it easier to immerse completely yourself in the practice.
Additionally, should you need extra advice, you can approach the teacher at the end of the session and ask them some questions. You may also find that you can share your queries or experiences with the wider class when the practice has drawn to a close.
Pranayama (Breathwork)
Pranayama is one of the foundations of the Kundalini Yoga lifestyle. The practice can lead to enhanced cognitive functions, lower stress levels, and a more focussed mental state. As a part of this practice, you will need to engage in breath control and even suspension.
Often enough, breathwork is paired with a type of meditation. You may need to focus your attention on a certain visual image or simply think about your consciousness. Each meditation practice is different and it’s important to follow the instructions closely.
This meditation style allows you to change not only your mind but also your physical state, e.g. your heart rate and breathing. For that reason, you can use it as part of your daily practice when you are on a road toward self-improvement and better physical health.
Insight Meditation
Also known as Vipassana, insight meditation comes from Buddhism with experts believing that it was the practice taught by Buddha. This approach has a very specific process.
If you choose to practice it, you will need to sit in complete silence and turn your attention to the sensations in your body. For example, you may want to switch your focus to your stomach as it rises and falls or to the breath as it moves through your nostrils.
As you engage in insight meditation, your mind will naturally wander. When that happens, you need to bring your attention back to the here and now. You do that by focusing completely on the feelings in your body and moving away from the thoughts you have.
The aim of the meditation is to stay present. This is often one of the hardest parts of meditating in general. If you find that you cannot focus on the practice, you may need to keep trying. It takes time to become a master at engaging in insight meditation.
Mantra (Chanting)
Using mantras or chanting can be a simple way to help you get into a meditative state. Within the realms of Kundalini Yoga, there is a wide selection of mantras that you may choose to utilize. Each of them has a unique power and can attract specific benefits.
As you focus on the vibrational force of your voice, you can bring your mind into a deep meditation. You may choose to do this within the confines of a class, by using a tape, or by chanting the mantra independently. It’s all about figuring out what works for the best you.
How to Choose Which Style Suits You
Now that you know about the various meditation styles, let’s talk about how you choose the right one for you. Keep in mind that you don’t have to select just one. You may desire to engage in a range of meditative practices when you are engaging in your activities.
One of the best ways you can determine which practice works for you is to try all of them. We have a variety of meditation guides on Serpentine from which you can choose. Checking some of them out and trying them at home will help you on your journey. You may also choose to attend a guided meditation class that takes you through the steps.
Also consider your lifestyle, personality, and practice. For instance, should you find it hard to relax during meditation, you may prefer chanting practices. On the other hand, if you are a complete newcomer to meditation, you may want to look into some guided classes.
The Takeaway
The world of meditation is vast — but don’t allow it to intimidate you. In this guide, we have detailed some of the most common practices that you will come up against. Since you are already familiar with them, you can use this knowledge to help guide which you choose.
Why wait any longer to get started? Lay down your yoga mat, assume the position, and start meditating today! You may be surprised by the remarkable benefits you achieve.
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