Meditation (compassion)

Ideal for beginners who prefer flexibility. Using apps, online videos, or guided scripts allows you to explore at your own pace. However, self-discipline is crucial to stay focused and consistently initiate the practice on your own.

Best for those wanting personalised support from a meditation teacher. 1:1 guidance ensures tailored feedback to help you deepen your practice effectively.

Great for first-timers who enjoy a sense of community. The group’s shared focus can help you stay engaged and motivated.

Accessible anytime through apps, online videos, or written guides. You can practice anywhere, whenever it suits your schedule.

Requires booking sessions with a personal meditation teacher, which may be in person or online. Timing depends on the teacher’s availability.

Typically available through meditation centres, community classes, or online platforms. Group sessions may follow a set schedule. As a stand alone technique it may be less common to find in group settings.

Often free or low-cost, depending on the app, video, or written material you use.

There are plenty of free meditation resources available online. It will require you to search specifically for this technique in order to differentiate from other meditation options.

Higher cost, typically $50 to $150 per session depending on the teacher’s experience and location, but the personalised feedback can be worth it.

Costs can range from $10 to $30 per session, depending on the location, instructor, and class size. Online group sessions may be lower-cost or free.

However, some community events may include this meditation style and be free for you to enjoy.

No special equipment needed. Just find a quiet space, and perhaps a cushion or chair for comfort.

Generally no special equipment needed.

You only need comfortable seating or space to sit.

Usually no special equipment needed, but centres might provide mats or cushions. You only need comfortable seating or space to sit.

Limited, as this is typically a solo practice. However, many apps and platforms have online communities where you can connect with others.

Low socialisation, but the personalised relationship with your teacher allows for connection and one-on-one support. You get customised advice but less interaction with others.

High socialisation potential. Group settings foster a sense of community and shared experiences. Post-session discussions can deepen your understanding and feeling of connection.

Safe, though without immediate guidance, you may have questions or doubts as you progress. Skill building depends on your consistency and self-discipline in maintaining focus and self-starting each session.

Very safe, as your meditation teacher customises each session to your needs. You’ll build skills more quickly with direct feedback and personalised advice.

Group sessions are guided, with an instructor providing structured advice. The group energy encourages focus and development of your meditation skills.

Requires a quiet, undisturbed space at home or anywhere you can concentrate on the practice. Privacy is important for focus.

A private space is necessary for 1:1 sessions, whether at home or in your teacher’s studio. This creates a focused, personalised environment for growth.

Group settings usually provide a quiet, calm space but lack complete privacy. However, the collective environment helps boost concentration.

Extremely flexible. Self-led practice can be done at any time that fits your day, giving you total control over your schedule.

Somewhat flexible, depending on your teacher’s availability. Booking in advance allows for personalised scheduling, but flexibility will vary by teacher.

Less flexible, as group classes follow a set timetable.

Finding compassion meditation as a stand alone group session may be more difficult than other meditation styles.

You will need to plan ahead.

Minimal setup required. Just find a quiet spot, sit comfortably, and begin with your chosen app, video, or script. However, self-led practice requires discipline to start the session and avoid procrastination.

Moderate setup. Arriving at a centre or preparing for a class might take time. You may need to travel, settle in and prepare for a shared environment.

Moderate setup. Arriving at a centre or preparing for a class might take time. You may need to travel, settle in and prepare for a shared environment.

Completely flexible, ranging from 5 to 30 minutes or more depending on the time you have and the app or script you're using.

Usually 30 to 60 minutes, tailored to your needs. A personal teacher will adjust the session length based on your progress and goals.

Typically runs from 30 to 60 minutes in a group setting. Instructors guide the class, and you practice for the duration.

Check the agenda for the class, as this technique may be only a smaller portion of a longer meditation session and you will need to be prepared to stay for the full class time.

If you have a dog or cat, they often really enjoy being around people meditating, and you might get some extra nice cuddles from them.

Working 1:1 with a teacher will definitely motivate you to concentrate because no one wants to start snoring in that setting!

Group meditation centres often have nice tea and the best biscuits for pre or post meditation snacks.