How Meditation Differs from Spiritual Meditation

Meditation is concentrated thinking. However, this doesn't mean it's just any type of concentrated thinking. Concentrating on a desk or another specific object will not help you reach your goal. Meditation is the unique process of making the mind concentrate on a source of consciousness inside us. Meditation will lead you to discover that your consciousness is never ending. Self-realization is the ultimate goal of meditation.
Spiritual meditation is somewhat different. You mind is not concentrated so much on your inner consciousness as it is towards a spiritual ideal. It focuses on love, happiness, and peace. It can also focus on a preferred entity that embodies such ideals. Spiritual meditation considers that these ideals are greater than one person. It helps you to contemplate the beauty and goodness in the world that is a direct result of infinite love.

Both meditation and spiritual meditation can be practiced somewhat the same way. While you do not have to sit cross-legged on the floor, with your hands on your knees and chant or "ohm", many people find this is the best position to achieve the balance they need to meditate. Meditation is a uniquely personal choice and many find the benefits are life-changing.

Salient features of Spiritual Meditation

Spiritual meditation is more a form of drawing in the peace and harmony brought about by infinite love. You are connected to your spiritual side and praise an entity you believe is responsible for this never ending love. Many people call this entity God, but the name is really not important. It's more important to recognize that love is everywhere if you stop and take the time to look. Spiritual meditation allows for this realization.

Salient Features of Meditation

Meditation will deal more with contemplating your inner self. It focuses on bring a peace to the constant battle within ourselves. This battle can be of any thought, action, or feeling; however, meditation is a way to relax our mind and bodies and realize that some things are beyond our control. Meditation is a way for your mind to focus on strengthening your will power to fight off negative feelings and make you more aware of your surroundings and the people in it.
While meditation and spiritual meditation can both be helpful in different aspects of our lives, it's easy to see where the two can be confused. However, if you have a religious preference, your prayers are considered a form of spiritual meditation. Spiritual meditation and traditional meditation both have a healing and cleansing affect on your mind and body. Both promote relaxation and true understanding of the world in which you live. There are times when you may feel particularly burdened. Spiritual meditation may help you feel the love that is available in your world, while mediation would be a way to prepare yourself to deal with the burdens.
It's completely a personal decision on which you prefer. While spiritual meditation and traditional meditation are not for everyone, those who practice one or the other, or a combination of both, tend to feel more fulfilled in their everyday lives.