Meditative describes a calm, deeply thoughtful state of mind, like when you're so focused and peaceful that outside distractions fade away. When someone sits in a meditative pose, eyes closed and breathing slowly, they're trying to quiet their busy thoughts and find inner stillness.

The word comes from meditation, a practice where people focus their attention to achieve mental clarity and emotional calm. Many religions and traditions use meditation, though you don't need to be religious to find it helpful. Some people meditate by concentrating on their breathing, others by repeating a word or phrase, and still others by paying close attention to the present moment.

Something can also be called meditative if it creates this same peaceful, focused feeling. Taking a quiet walk through the woods might feel meditative. Carefully drawing or painting can be meditative. Even washing dishes or folding laundry can become meditative if you do it slowly and pay attention to each movement, letting your mind settle into the rhythm of the task.

When you're in a meditative state, time seems to slow down. Your worries about yesterday or tomorrow fade as you become absorbed in right now. It's the opposite of feeling scattered, rushed, or anxious. Think of it as giving your busy mind a chance to rest and recharge.