If you are into mindfulness practices, you must have heard of two common terms: contemplation vs meditation. Most amateurs get confused between these two terms and use them as synonyms. But contemplation and meditation are not the same thing, these imply different approaches and goals.
Through this article, you will get a clear concept of contemplation and meditation, which will help you decide which process can help you right now.
Meditation
Before going to a head-to-head comparison between contemplation and meditation, let’s first learn the definition of these two concepts.
Meditation is the process of setting out to become calm or heal yourself in some way. It’s the technique to go or achieve some kind of mental state and inner peace. In other words, through mediation, you will try to accomplish some kind of useful result from your experience.
People have been practicing meditation since the ancient period. The concept of meditation is considered a philosophical and spiritual tradition that helps people enrich their mental power, bring concentration, and boost spiritual enlightenment.
There are different types and techniques of meditation depending on the purpose, such as
-stress reduction
-physical well-being
-emotional well-being
-mindfulness
-boosting energy
-and discovering inner peace.
Contemplation
Now let’s learn what contemplation is.
Contemplation is the process of increasing consciousness and realization. It’s simply about deep thinking and questioning for what’s true. In another sense, contemplation usually refers to considering reflective thinking or understanding the deeper meaning of something. It often gathers new ideas and enhances the encouragement of taking action on any particular matter.
It helps to-
-interact with oneself
-explore ideas
-gather information with deep observation
-and gain effective insight.
Contemplation Vs Meditation
Though the practices of contemplation and meditation are close to each other, they are different from each other. Here’s a chart of a head-to-head comparison of Contemplation and meditation.
| Contemplation | Meditation | |
| Definition | Contemplation is the process of deep thinking to increase consciousness and realization. | Meditation is the process of letting go of negative thoughts and relaxing body and mind to achieve some kind of mental state and inner peace.
|
| Goals | Contemplation aims to enhance self-awareness, understanding and mental clarity. | The main object of meditation is to improve mental, emotional and physical well-being. |
| Techniques | Some Contemplation techniques are recording feelings and ideas and focusing on structured practices to develop critical thinking. These techniques force us to think critically, analyze a particular topic, focus on making vision and enhance imagination power. | Meditation follows some techniques and physical positions through which people can make better connections to their inner self and also discover inner peace. |
| Application | Contemplation can be seamlessly applied to daily life through easy practices such as meaningful pauses and devoted thinking sessions. | Meditation can be applied through focused breathing techniques or supervised sessions. You can really benefit from meditation apps like Headspace, Ten Percent Happier and Smiling Mind. |
| Range | Contemplation is simply thoughtful meditation. | On the contrary, the scope of meditation is vast. |
| Positions | There’s no particle position for contemplation. One can practice contemplation through mindful walking, breathing exercises or even sitting in silence. | Some meditation positions are Padmasana, Ardha Padmasan, Savasana, etc. |
| Common Misconception | One common myth about contemplation is that it is only a theoretical and unproductive activity. | People often consider mediation to be complicated and only applicable for stressful lifestyle and particular religion. |
The Similarities of Contemplation and Meditation
Though contemplation and meditation have some remarkable contrasts, both of the concepts have some similarities. Both of these methods focus on inner peace and mental health. In addition, keeping your mind quiet is important for both of the practices. Through contemplation and meditation, people can explore their inner selves and give a second chance at their decisions.
There is no doubt that both of the concepts enhance spiritual enlightenment and spark positive energy. Both of the processes are considered to be the best techniques to explore one’s inner self.
Which One Should You Choose Between Contemplation And Meditation?
The preferences of choosing one practice may depend on your personal preferences, especially on your goals. If you have a clear state of mind but want to solve any problem or need to delve into some critical thinking, you should go for contemplation.
On the other hand, if you want to enhance your mental strength, live a stress-free life, and discover your inner self, you need to practice meditation.
Furthermore, if you are not a dedicated person and you need more patience, you should follow the contemplation techniques. As meditation needs some time, a peaceful environment, and dedication, sometimes it is not suitable for all kinds of humans. However, you can practice contemplation while you are walking or engaging in other work.
FAQS
Contemplation Vs Meditation: Which Practice Is Better?
Contemplation is the process of deep thinking to increase consciousness and realization. On the contrary, meditation is the process of letting go of negative thoughts and relaxing the body and mind and try achieve some kind of mental state and inner peace.
So which practice is better depends on the individual’s goals. However, both of them work for relaxation, inner peace, mind power, and boosting confidence.
What Are Some Examples of Contemplation?
- Yoga
- Lactio Divina
- Contemplative prayer
- Breathing exercises
- Mindful walking
- Noting down feelings and ideas
- Sitting in silence
- Gratitude practice
- Nature observation
Final Thoughts
After all the discussion about contemplation vs meditation, now I’m sure you don’t have any confusion about these two concepts.
To maintain a balanced and disciplined life, contemplation and meditation both mindful practices is really effective. You can practice both of these techniques according to your convenience in your daily life.
