Specially geared to the needs of the beginning meditator, this book explains more than 50 meditation practices. Readers can take a self-test to acquire information about which types of meditations are most appropriate for them. Traditions involving Shamanism, Yoga, Taoism, Buddhism, Islam, Western Traditions, Biofeedback, Meditation in Life (such as nature, gardening, and sports), Creative Meditations, and Active Imagination (including Kinesthetic meditations and visualizations) are each described in separate chapters. Each chapter also covers historical background, contemporary use, a description of the practice, and resource list. Even an advanced meditator will find new information in this book to enhance the inner life.
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Monaghan and Viereck explain more than 50 forms of meditation to those beginning a meditation practice and to nonbeginners seeking to expand their meditational repertoire. Besides the familiar Buddhist styles, the book covers Taoist, Islamic, Christian, and pagan meditation as well as such active practices as Sufi dancing, drumming, and journal writing. Ray Olson