Meditation - how to meditate?

i believe that there are many methods to meditation. The two i know and have been practicing were (i) object and (ii) non-conceptual meditation.

(i) Object meditation requires concentration on an object. An object can be a flower, a feeling, an idea, a representation of the Buddha or anything you wish to focus on.

(ii) Non-conceptual meditation focus directly on consciousness itself. It is pure awareness of things happening at the most present moment without passing any judgment. Just observing the very nature of thoughts that cross our mind.

The meaning of the word Meditation is familarisation with a new way of being.

Thru meditation we can develop calmness, patience, tolerance, understanding, kindness,.. many good virtues.. But meditation must be followed by actions.. applying newly acquired Buddha's knowledge & wisdom in our everyday life.. If great sessions of meditation doesnt translate into improvement of our whole being, then we need to re-examine our practice. Successful meditation brings us all the goodness as mentioned earlier eg. love, compassion, calmness, patience,.. Only after we are 'matured' and ready, can we then be ready to help others achieve likewise..

note: (a) above info is inspired & extracted from the book Happiness by Matthieu Ricard pg 260. (b) u need to clam your mind first for meditation. And to achieve that, breath in and exhale slowly with yr eyes lightly closed. Focus on yr breathing & nothing else. Return to yr centre. Back to your being. Be present. After a few more breathing or when you feel ready, proceed with the meditation proper..