To understand Buddhist meditation, you need to know that Buddhism itself is centered on the Four Noble Truths. First, we must realize that there is suffering in the world which happens because of our ignorance and our desires. When we do understand ourselves, we can finally find a way to end this suffering. Those who find the answer have reached a state of Nirvana.

There are a number of different Buddhist meditation techniques. Despite their differences, the techniques are all generally based on developing two things - mindfulness and concentration. Attentiveness to the movements of your body and to your ever changing state of mind are to be developed in order to identify the real concept of self. Objectivity can be a valuable aid to clear thinking. With objectivity comes concentration, the ability to focus the mind and keep focused on a single point or object.

Many Buddhist schools employ different techniques in meditation. Some may focus on such practices as breathing meditation while others on movements. The diversity can be so wide ranging that there are a multitude of variations available. Most Buddhist techniques can be school specific. Only a few masters aim to combine and categorize the techniques from several Buddhist traditions.

One of the better known meditation techniques is that being practiced by Western Order meditation master Kamalashila. The teacher identifies five basic methods to be used as a traditional set for meditation. Each method can be used as an antidote to one of the five primary obstructions to Enlightenment - distraction, hatred, craving, conceit and ignorance.

One of the five basic methods is the mindfulness of breathing, involving the practice of tranquility meditations. This method helps to counteract distraction and aims to develop better concentration.

Another of the five basic methods t is the Metta Bhavana. This method includes the four brahma viharas and is used to counteract sentimental attachment or hatred. This method aims to develop loving kindness in a person.

A third method is the contemplation of impermanence. This method can help counteract craving and develop inner peace and a feeling of freedom.

Another method is based on meditation of the six elements - earth, water, space, air, fire and consciousness. The six-element method of meditation counteracts craving and develops self awareness.

The fifth basic method of meditation is the contemplation of conditionality, which aims to counteract ignorance and instead develop wisdom and compassion.

There are also other Buddhist meditation techniques not identified by the five basic methods. These include different methods of visualization, meditation by sitting and the walking meditation.

Another of the many techniques used in Buddhist meditation includes the five types of Zen as grouped by Kuei-feng:

- “Bonpu” or “ordinary” meditation that is done to achieve physical and mental well-being in the absence of any spiritual goal

- “Gedo” or “outside way” which is meditation that is used for non-Buddhist purposes.

- “Shojo” or “small vehicle” which is meditation used in pursuit of self-liberation or nirvana.

- “Daijo” or “great vehicle” which is meditation in pursuit of achieving self-realization to experience the unity of all things.

- “Saijojo” or “supreme vehicle” which is the meditation aimed to realize the Buddha nature as imminent in all beings.

Buddhist meditation is just one of the many meditation techniques that can help relieve stress, improve your outlook on life and do improve your overall physical health.