There are numerous different Buddhist meditation methods that followers and a lot of meditation enthusiasts practice.

But, in spite of their differences, the techniques are all broadly founded on developing two things- mindfulness and concentration.

Paying attention to the movements of the body and to the dynamic states of mind is to be developed in order to identify the genuine concept of self.  Objectivity in this example could be a invaluable aid to clear thinking. With objectivity comes concentration, the ability to concentrate the mind and keep it focused on a single point or object.

A lot of Buddhist schools apply different techniques in meditation. Some might focus on such practices as breathing meditation whilst others on movements. The variety can be so large that there are a multitude of variations available. Most Buddhist techniques can be school specific.

Only a few masters aspire to merge and categorise the techniques from various Buddhist traditions.

Among the known meditation techniques is that being practised by Western Order meditation master Kamalashila. The teacher identifies that there are five basic methods to be used as an orthodox set for meditation. Each method may be employed as an antidote to one of the five basic obstacles to Enlightenment- distraction, hatred, craving, conceit and ignorance.

One of the five basic methods is the mindfulness of breathing. This requires the practice of serenity meditations. This method assists to counterbalance distraction and aspires to develop better concentration. Another of the five basic methods laid proscribed is the Metta Bhavana. This technique includes the four brahma viharas and is used to counteract sentimental attachment or hatred. This method aims to develop loving kindness in a person.

Another of the five basic techniques in Buddhist meditation is the contemplation of impermanency. This method may help countercheck craving and develop inner peace and the feeling of freedom.

The six element practice is based on meditation involving the six elements- earth, water, space, air, fire and consciousness. The six element practice method of meditation counteracts craving and develops instead some clarity in a individual regarding to self.

The fifth basic method of meditation is the contemplation of conditionality which aspires to counteract ignorance and instead develop wisdom and compassion. There are also other Buddhist meditation techniques not identified by the five basic methods. These includes different techniques of
Visualisations, meditation by sitting and walking meditation.

Among the numerous techniques used in Buddhist meditation we can include the five types of Zen Buddhism as classified by Kuei-feng. In this
case, the Zen practices were sorted according to five categories. Whilst generally common for Zen practitioners, the techniques are also relevant to Buddhist meditation methods.

One of the types is the “bonpu” or “ordinary” meditation that is practised to attain physical and mental well-being in the absence of any spiritual goal.

There is also the “gedo” or “outside way” which is meditation that is employed for non-Buddhist purposes.

The third is the “shojo” or “small vehicle” which is meditation practised in pursuit of self-liberation or nirvana.

The fourth of the Zen Buddhist meditation techniques as classified by Kuei-feng is the “daijo” or “great vehicle” which is meditation in the pursuit of achieving self-realization to experience the unity of all things.

And then there is also the “saijojo” or “supreme vehicle” which is the meditation calculated to realize the Buddha nature as imminent in all beings.

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