Meditation Glossary
Keep your meditation terminology straight with this mini guide.
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Asana
In meditation, the pose in which you do formal meditation. It should be comfortable and stable, but also support alertness. Examples: Full or Half Lotus, kneeling (Zen), or sitting in a straight-backed chair.
Japa
In Hinduism, repetition of a mantra or divine name.
Mandala
Sacred diagram used as an object of meditation, particularly in esoteric and Tibetan Buddhism.
Mantra
Sacred words or sounds used as an object of meditation. In Hinduism and esoteric Buddhism, they are said to have transformative powers that aid the meditator.
Nirvana
Buddhist term for self-realization.
Samadhi
In Hinduism, a state of meditative union with the Absolute. In Buddhism, a high state of awareness and concentration that is short of self-realization.