A few questions from a beginner.

Yes there are plenty of different methods(I don’t like counting either). You should check out the big WILD topicfor more ideas.

Some of my personal favorite are:

1)Focus on your breathing
2)Create a falling sensation
3)Create a spinning sensation ( DM7 taught me that one and it is very cool)
4) imagine yourself walking down stairs
5)Visualize a simple object (like a book) or symbol. (Keep it something simple though)