Buddhist Meditation
Mindfulness, Vipassana, Zen, and other Buddhist meditation practices
Buddhist meditation encompasses a wide range of practices developed over 2,500 years
to cultivate mindfulness, wisdom, and compassion. Rooted in the teachings of the Buddha,
these practices aim to understand the nature of reality and achieve liberation from suffering.
Buddhist meditation can be broadly categorized into two main types: Samatha (calm abiding)
and Vipassana (insight meditation). Samatha practices develop concentration and tranquility,
while Vipassana practices develop insight into the true nature of phenomena.
Samatha (Calm Abiding)
Practices that develop concentration, tranquility, and mental stability. These include mindfulness of breath and other concentration techniques.
Vipassana (Insight)
Practices that develop insight into the true nature of reality, including impermanence, suffering, and non-self.
Metta (Loving-Kindness)
Practices that cultivate compassion, loving-kindness, and positive emotions toward all beings.
Ethical Foundation
Meditation is supported by ethical living, including right speech, right action, and right livelihood.