Meditation is a cornerstone of many yoga retreats, offering pathways to inner peace and mental clarity. Vipassana, a popular technique, focuses on observing sensations as they arise and pass, cultivating equanimity. Samatha, or 'calm abiding,' often involves focusing on the breath to quiet the mind. Metta (loving-kindness) meditation cultivates compassion towards oneself and others. Transcendental Meditation (TM) uses a mantra to transcend thought. Mindfulness meditation, widely practiced, encourages present-moment awareness without judgment. Many retreats combine these techniques or offer specific styles. Understanding these practices can help you choose a retreat that aligns with your personal goals for mental and spiritual development, guiding you towards a deeper meditative experience.