One type of meditation is that of concentrative meditation.  In this type of meditation, the focus is on the way that you breathe, on an image, or on a sound.  Sound, or mantra, is often used.  By using these tools, so to speak, you are able to clear the mind and allow for greater awareness as well as clarity. 

To focus on meditation, you’ll use one of these elements to help you to focus.  By focusing on it, like you would a camera lens, you can then effectively reach the state that you are in.

Breathing

One method of concentrative meditation that is commonly used is that of concentrating on your breathing.  It is probably the most simple of methods to use because you can do it any time without much need. 

Breathing is effective because of how it plays a role in your daily life and well being.  Many of hose that practice other alternative medicines, such as yoga, also believe that breathing is essential to maintaining the correct state of mind.  In meditation, it is believed that breathing must be regulated in order to meditate properly.

You can see this clearly in your everyday life without considering meditation at all.  When you are relaxed and comfortable, your breathing is slowly and deeper.  But, when you are worried, stressed or anxious, your breathing speeds up.  If you are distracted, this happens as well.  By regulating your breathing, you can focus your mind and gain control over it more effectively.