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The History of Meditation

"Yoga" and "meditation" seem to have become trendy words recently, and even trendier practices. But for all their modern applications, both yoga and meditation have been around for a long, long time.

For more than five thousand years, meditation has been a part of human life. Though it has its roots in Hinduism, most religions throughout the globe practice one form of meditation or another.

Meditation in Buddhism

Siddhartha Gautama, better known as Gautama Buddha, was the founder of Buddhism thousands of years ago. Originally a pampered prince, he fled the palace and sought a life of spiritual enlightenment rather than material wealth. After meditating beneath a sacred fig tree for 49 days, Siddhartha attained enlightenment, which allowed him great insight into the cause of human suffering, as well as the process needed to eliminate it.

Since the Buddha's revelation beneath the sacred fig tree, meditation has been a centerpiece of Buddhism. The meditation techniques they pursue are a part of their goal of reaching Enlightenment and Nirvana, and develop four key areas: mindfulness, insight, concentration and tranquility. These same techniques, however, are often used by non-Buddhists to better their mental and physical health, or to reach other spiritual goals.

Meditation in Hinduism

Meditation actually started as a part of Vedic Hinduism, which is the oldest religion to have meditation as part of it for spiritual and mental enlightenment. Indian scriptures from 5, 000 years ago actually describe meditation.

Of the six schools of Hindu philosophy, yoga is the one that focuses on meditation. However, Hinduism has a variety of meditation techniques, each with different focuses for the subject. The ultimate goal for all Hindu meditation is to attain a calm state of mind.

Meditation in Christianity

Though you may not hear about it as much, there are some Christian traditions that can be classified as meditation. Early Christian monks practiced reading the Bible slowly and carefully consider the meanings of each verse, a practice called "lectio divina." It's widely regarded as the first instance of meditation in Christianity. Prayer is also considered a form of meditation.

Enhance your meditation with meditation tools

Five thousand years ago, it was probably a lot easier to clear the mind and focus without cell phones ringing and emails beeping. With the stress and constant state of movement that modern life forces upon us, it can be difficult to completely focus on prayers or on mantra meditation.

In this case, meditation tools can make it easier to focus on meditation and quiet the constant chatter in your mind. Find a quiet place where you can have just 5 or 10 minutes by yourself, without a computer turned on or your cell phone ringing. Once you've gotten to your place, use a meditation tool like the Zen Stick to attain a meditative state quickly and easily. The benefit of entering a meditative state quickly with the Zen Stick is that you need only spend about 5 minutes a day meditating, as opposed to 10 or 20 minutes with regular meditation.

Make an ancient ritual part of your modern life

For centuries, meditation has been an integral part of many religions. Break out of the rut of your daily grind. Let meditation help you better your life mentally, physically, and spiritually.

About the Author

Laurie Desjardins is a meditation expert and creator of the Zen Stick relaxation tool. Get started on meditation today. Visit SleepingTiger.org and sign up for a free newsletter packed with meditation tips and techniques.