Definition of meditation

The concept of meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations such as India, China, and Egypt. The exact origin of the word "meditation" can be traced back to the Latin word "meditatio," meaning "to think, contemplate, or ponder." In the 13th century, the Latin word was adopted into the French language as "meditation," where it referred to a mental exercise of reflection and contemplation. From there, the French word made its way into English through the Middle English term "meditacioun," which was defined as "an act of contemplation, prayer, or religious study." In the centuries that followed, the meaning of meditation in English evolved to include a broader range of mental practices, such as focused concentration, mindfulness, and inner reflection. Today, the word "meditation" is widely used to describe a range of mental and spiritual disciplines, from traditional Buddhist mindfulness meditation to modern mindfulness techniques that celebrate wellness and personal development.