meditaatioon

Meditaatioon is a Finnish term referring to the act or practice of entering a meditative state. Meditaatio means meditation, and the illative form -on indicates movement toward or into the practice. In broad use, meditaatioon describes voluntary mental training aimed at cultivating sustained attention, present-moment awareness, and emotional balance.

Practices vary widely. Common forms include mindfulness meditation (awareness of breath, bodily sensations, and thoughts without judgment), concentration meditation (focusing on a single object such as breath or a mantra), and loving-kindness or compassion meditation (cultivating positive attitudes toward self and others). Secular programs such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) are widely taught in health care and community settings.

Techniques and routines typically begin with a comfortable posture and a brief settling of the body, followed by attention to a chosen object of focus. Sessions commonly last 10 to 40 minutes, with regular daily practice encouraged. When the mind wanders, the practitioner gently returns attention without judgment.

Effects and evidence: Systematic reviews report reductions in stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, and improvements in attention and emotion regulation. Some studies note physiological changes, such as lowered blood pressure and altered brain activity in networks related to mind-wandering. Results vary by method, duration, and population, and more high-quality research is ongoing.

History and context: Meditaatio has roots in ancient contemplative traditions of South Asia and East Asia. In the modern era, mindfulness and secular meditation spread to Western health care and education, aided by researchers and clinicians who adapt practices for broader audiences.

See also: meditation, mindfulness. Safety: Generally safe for healthy adults; those with certain mental health conditions should seek professional guidance. Meditaatioon is not a substitute for medical treatment when needed.