The practice of meditation has actually been around for thousands of years. Although there is no documentation to prove specifically when this technique began, a number of early civilizations came to be the center of the meditative world.
India especially is thought of as the country which first explored the process of reflection. Over several millennia, many a learned Hindi scholar has delved into meditation, from its many methods to its extraordinary benefits. Some widely known Hindi writings are the Vedas as well as the Yoga Exercise Sutras which was composed by Patanjali.
Certainly, the most significant global figure when the topic of meditation as a school of thought comes up is Siddharta Gautama, commonly known as Buddha. 
In 500 BC, he was able to reach enlightenment using meditative techniques. His prominence in this space led him to be a recognized figure across Asia before finally finding a following in the Western world.
Eastern cultures have embraced meditation for quite some time but it wasn’t until the middle of the 20th century when travelers from the East brought their spiritual practice to the other side of the world that this process of reflection grew to become a part of Western culture.
Today, an increasing number of meditation rooms, as well as personal coaches, are appearing in the West. Buddha and his followers found this form of reflection to be a spiritual journey providing insight into the soul. However, Western meditation practices no longer stress the spiritual nature but rather put forth the many psychological and health benefits meditating can provide. When faced with this busy and chaotic world in which we live taking time away from that to get in touch with your mind and body has become fashionable.
Whether or not you embrace the spiritual side of meditating you will definitely reap the calming effect it can have in your daily life. And, it’s so easy to do. What could be better?