Meditation techniques vary, but what most of them have in common is the relief of suffering and the promotion of healing. It is generally known that there are four different kinds of meditation. One is based on body control in order to unite body and mind as in Yoga. A second technique of meditation is based on control of the mind and requires concentration, contemplation and visualization. Concentration is accomplished by focusing on an object.
Contemplation is achieved through continuous repetition of a word or a syllable.
A third approach to meditation is based on letting go of the body, using techniques to achieve relaxation of muscle tensions. The fourth meditative technique focuses on letting go of the mind. The mind remains open to whatever enters it thus obtaining insight. There is a fine line between meditation and hypnosis. Meditation and self-hypnosis can be induced in similar ways.