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Ideas For Objects of Focused Meditation
These Can Bring You Peace

By Elizabeth Scott, M.S., About.com

Updated: September 19, 2009

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A burning candle can be a great object for focused meditation. ©iStockphoto.com

Sometimes the typical form of meditation—staying focused on nothing and keeping your mind clear—is difficult to do and even frustrating. Many people find it easier to practice focused meditation, where you choose something to focus your attention on in order to keep your mind clear and your awareness in the present. The following are some targets of focus you can use when practicing this type of meditation.

Auditory:

  • A Metronome
  • The Sounds of The Ocean
  • Soothing Music
  • Nature Sounds
  • The Sounds of Your Backyard
  • Running Water
  • Wind Chimes
  • Children Laughing At A Park
Olfactory:
  • Incense
  • A Baking Cake
  • Scented Candles
  • A Tub of Scented Bubbles
  • A Simmering Stew
  • The Smell of Outdoors
Tactile:
  • A Foot Massage
  • Warm Water in a Tub
  • Bubbles in a Spa
  • The Feel of Velvet or Silk
Visual:
  • A Burning Candle
  • A View of Nature
  • A Picture of a Saint
  • An Abstract Painting
  • Bubbles Floating
  • A Lava Lamp
  • Your Own Hand
Conceptual:
  • Unconditional Compassion
  • Forgiveness
  • Love
  • Gratitude

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