Types of Meditation

Many people with fibromyalgia have found that regular meditation has helped reduce their fibromyalgia symptoms. But what is the “right way” to meditate? Is there even a right way? There are numerous meditation methods that you can use to help reduce your symptoms and stress levels. Here are two of the most common types of meditation for fibromyalgia sufferers which help you get relief.

Concentration Meditation
Concentration meditation is one of the simplest forms of meditation. It involves focusing your attention on a single object, such as a candle, flower, or statue. Simply sit in an upright position, with your shoulders level with your hips. The object that you are concentrating on should be placed in your line of sight, but not too far away from you. Let your eyes and attention focus on the object. While you are focusing, you will find that random thoughts will arise in your mind. When you become aware of these thoughts, gently pull your concentration back towards the object. Try to do this for ten minutes, twice a day.

Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is one of the most effective types of meditation, and it is easy and enjoyable to perform. Sit in a comfortable position and let your eyes gaze downwards. Don’t close your eyes completely – instead, soften your gaze slightly. Let your mind take in all the aspects of your surroundings, including sounds, smells, and images, but don’t concentrate on or judge anything in particular. Instead, focus on enjoying these sensations and accepting your surroundings for what they have to offer. Try practicing this once a day for about 20 minutes.

Transcendental Meditation
Transcendental meditation has numerous followers and is good for promoting rest, sleep, and inner peace. It is often paired with religous worship in order to deepen faith. Sit down in a comfortable position and close your eyes. In your head, silently repeat a sound (called a mantra), over and over again. This sound should be meaningless but it should also feel soothing to say. With each repetition, the sound should become quieter and quieter, until your are left at peace with just your thoughts. Transcendental meditation should be practiced for fifteen minutes, twice a day.