Benefits of Meditation and How To Make It Work For You
The concept of regularly practicing mindfulness and meditation may seem like a brand-new craze that everybody is joining. However, meditation has been practiced for thousands of years in cultures across the world and is a key component of most religions.
Meditation originated for people to connect with the sacred and spiritual forces of life. It is now also used as part mindfulness practice to help with relaxation.
But what makes meditation so good? And how can you make it work for you?
What is Meditation?
Meditation involves focusing your attention on the ‘here and now.’
The idea is to acknowledge your thoughts and allow them to pass without taking action. When you choose not to engage with these thoughts, it creates a level of awareness that enables you to be present. When we’re present, we are able to understand our situations more clearly, allowing us to reflect and respond rationally. This heightened state contributes to new perspectives and control over our impulses as we move through life.
Benefits of Meditation
Meditation has been extensively studied, and it has been associated with many physical and psychological benefits, including the following.
Improved stress-management
Meditation can reduce levels of stress hormones within the body and can improve symptoms of stress-related conditions such as IBS and PTSD.
Increased self-awareness
By practicing meditation, you can learn how to become more aware of your thoughts and feelings. It also makes you more aware of where your limbs are in relation to each other and how your body moves.
Decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression
Meditation has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Research also shows its benefits in improving feelings of well-being and reducing negative thoughts and emotions. Physically, meditation can help to decrease levels of inflammatory cytokines in the body, which are raised in those who are chronically stressed or depressed.
Improved problem-solving and memory
Meditation can activate parts of the brain involved in productivity and problem-solving. This can increase your attention span and mental performance. Studies also show that meditation may improve memory in elderly individuals or those with dementia.
How to Make Meditation Work for You
Meditation does not have to involve sitting in a dark room cross-legged on the floor in silence. This is one way to meditate, but it’s not the only way. You can meditate anywhere as long as you are able to relax and focus your attention on the present moment.
If you’ve tried meditating, and it’s not working for you, here are some top tips on how to get started.
- Choose a set time to meditate. If you have free time first thing in the morning, dedicate your early mornings to meditation.
- Find a relaxing area. This could be somewhere in your home, such as your living room or bedroom, or maybe in your garden if the weather permits.
- Sit comfortably. If you find sitting cross-legged uncomfortable, try sitting in a chair or on your knees. Find a position that you can stay in for a while.
- Walk around. If you are struggling to meditate while sitting down, try a walking meditation. By slowing your walking pace down, you can focus on how your body is moving and how your breathing rate is changing.
- Don’t suppress your feelings. Many people make the mistake of ignoring their feelings during meditation. Instead, allow your thoughts to flow freely and acknowledge them without judgment. Eventually, they will pass.
- Focus on maintaining good posture and deep breathing. This will help you concentrate your attention on your mind and body.