Stress is an everyday reality in our lives and can be the result of a wide range of factors. Among these factors can be problems with our work, family life, or even our health. When we suffer under high levels of stress for too long, health concerns can be the result. The fast-paced world in which we live doesn’t make a lot of time for taking care of ourselves, so knowing how to get the most out of your relaxation time is key. One method of stress reduction is to take advantage of the ancient practice of meditation.
The Key Benefits of Meditation
Meditation is about more than just taking a little ‘you time’ to breathe and relax; it’s about creating a sense of inner tranquility and letting go of the day’s stressors. Meditation has been shown to have a range of benefits, including:
- Stress Reduction – One of the consequences of high stress is elevated levels of the hormone cortisol, which in turn can lead to inflammation. Mindful meditation has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and the associated inflammation.
- Manage Anxiety – In addition to reducing stress, meditation has also been shown to control anxiety in those with a generalized anxiety disorder. Those with chronic pain found that their depression, pain, and anxiety levels all declined after eight weeks of daily meditation.
- Improve Self-Awareness – Self-inquiry meditation can expand our understanding of self and help us better connect with those around us. As a result, those who meditate regularly develop an improved sense of self-efficacy or belief in their ability to overcome challenges.
- Lengthens Attention Span – Focusing our attention isn’t just a matter of how we’re wired; it’s a habit that can be improved through practice. Meditation is an excellent way of training our minds to focus on one thing and can reverse poor attention, worry, and mind-wandering.
- Battles Memory Loss Related To Age – Studies reveal that those who meditate regularly using a mantra or slow chant along with repetitive finger motion have been able to improve their age-related memory loss. This makes it an important tool in the battle against dementia.
Different Kinds of Meditation
Meditation has been part of religious and cultural traditions all over the world, and the result is a seemingly endless range of techniques that each have their own strengths and weaknesses. If you’re considering using meditation as part of your self-care and treatment, consider speaking to one of our practitioners about the methods they’d suggest for addressing your concerns. While it’s not a replacement for medical care, it is one more thing you can do to help improve your health while working with your physician. Don’t let stress add to your physical, mental, and emotional health concerns; start meditating and take control of your own inner peace today!
