Explain the differences between concentrative meditation and mindfulness meditation in terms of how attention is directed, and explain what problems or outcomes each type of meditation addresses.

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Meditation involves relaxation techniques and focusing attention. Concentrative meditation involves the person clearing their mind of stress-producing thoughts and instead moving into a relaxed state of consciousness. To achieve this, the person should be in an environment free from distractions, while focusing on an object or their breathing, or stating a mantra. Through practice, the person will improve their ability to practice concentrative meditation and reach a state of relaxed awareness. This type of meditation is used mainly for relaxation and stress relief. With mindfulness meditation, attention is directed not to clearing one's thoughts but to opening the mind to the experience happening at that moment. By doing this, the person can experience uncomfortable or painful thoughts in a relaxed state. This helps people to use their inner resources to cope with physical and psychological challenges and stress. This type of meditation is used to treat problems with sleep, stress, anxiety, and pain control.

Psychology

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Psychology