Meditation vs Yoga

Hatha yoga is about three main things: asana or yoga postures; pranayama or correct breathing techniques; and, meditation. Hatha yoga is usually a combination of all three; though some people might do one and not the other. Meditation is done after performing the yoga exercises. While the exercises in yoga help to strengthen and stretch the body, the meditation combined with breathing techniques soothes the mind.

Meditation is a mental act where you introspect and contemplate and focus. Yoga on the other hand is a combination of mental as well as physical acts, though essentially yoga comprises of physical postures.
Meditation is done in most religions. This form of contemplation and dialogue with God to attain a higher level of being is done in several religions.

Meditation can be done at any place. If you are spiritual by nature and are used to meditating, you can meditate in your office, on the bus or in a public place. While, a quiet place is best for meditation, it can also be done in other places. But for yoga, you need to have the right space and right conditions. For yoga, you need to be in a quiet place with a certain amount of space. You also need to do yoga in a sequence and the postures are best done under the guidance of a teacher.

Meditation develops focus and concentration, while yoga stretches and strengthens the muscles of the body. These were the differences between meditation and yoga. But while meditation and yoga postures may seem to be two separate things, these are essentially part of the same yoga. Yoga has five main principles, and meditation is one of them. In meditation, you have to focus your mind and it is a means to achieving a better and higher sense of purpose as well as mental strength. Through meditation you can become more spiritual, wise, tranquil and focused. While the physical postures in yoga prepare the body, the meditation techniques are good for the mind. Together, asanas and meditation nourish the mind and the body.

If you’re wondering which one to do: meditation or yoga, it is entirely up to you. If you’re looking for spiritual benefits or mental benefits, then meditation might be right for you. If you’re looking at learning correct breathing techniques and precise exercises for physiological benefits, then yoga asanas might be want you’d want to do. Or if you’re looking for a balance between both, then taking up yoga as a whole, which includes meditation, might be a good idea.