The practice of meditation, although present in almost all religions, has been predominantly associated with Eastern traditions. Some of these practices require adherence to the beliefs of Eastern philosophy, while others are simply mechanical practices (such as observing the breath) pulled from those cultures and applicable to anyone. Of course, the East has much to offer the West – and vice versa – and most people find it possible to incorporate an Eastern-derived meditation practice from a centuries-old tradition without sacrificing their personal belief.