While meditation became mainstream within the last two decades, the practice has been with us for at least 5,000 years. Originating in India, medication was a religious practice thought to allow a person to transcend the limitations of human life.
Today, meditation is more often practiced for its scientifically proven benefits. Nearly everyone can reap the rewards of calming the mind. Practicing medication can provide the following positive impacts:
- Reduce stress
- Decrease pain
- Increase focus
- Improve mood
- Ease inflammation
- Increase compassion
- Lower blood pressure
- Boost immune system
With so many benefits of meditation, it would be easy to believe everyone is finding their moment of Zen. For those who want to practice meditation but have yet to begin, there are two mythical reasons holding them back.
Time – Thoughts of meditation often conjure up images of Buddhists or yogis stoically sitting for hours at a time. But the benefits of medication can be realized in as little as 10 minutes. No special equipment is required, and meditating can be done literally anywhere.
Focus – Many have said they are unable to calm their mind when meditating. However, this is exactly why someone should meditate. The more one meditates, the more control can be exerted on our thoughts. And with more control comes many of the benefits of meditation, like better focus and reduced stress.
The neurological effects are overwhelmingly positive. Studies using MRI and EEG machines have shown increases in grey matter (information processing center) and reduces activity within the “me” areas of the brain. The result; a calmer, more focused individual.
Meditation is an easy practice to take up. Simply sit or lie comfortably, close your eyes, and breathe naturally. The key is to focus on each inhalation and exhalation, noticing how your body moves with each breath.
Like exercise, the more meditation is practiced, the deeper the benefits. Best of all, you can begin right now!