Meditation And Its Benefits

Meditation is a practice that involves focusing the mind to achieve mental clarity, relaxation and awareness. It is the core part of mindfulness practice. Mindfulness is a broader concept which is a practice of bringing your full attention to the present moment. It is a state that can be practiced anytime, anywhere, by being fully present in whatever you are doing such as eating, walking or even doing daily chores like washing dishes.

Words -  Dr. Sharmila Samaranayake

There are many practices of meditation;

• Mindfulness meditation – you are aware of yourself. Ex: your breathing pattern 
• Metta – loving kindness meditation
• Body scan meditation – where you focus on each part of your body to promote relaxation
• Guided meditation – where you listen to a teacher or guidance given by  a voice recording

What are the benefits of meditation?

• Reduces your stress and anxiety – the stress hormone (Cortisol) is secreted when you are stressed. Frequent stress can give rise to metabolic issues, weight gain, sleep disturbances as well as increase anxiety. Meditation reduces the cortisol secretion. This promotes relaxation and helps people with anxiety disorders.
• Improves focus and concentration
• Increases your attention span
• Enhances your emotional health and increases self-awareness – it gives a positive outlook for life
• Meditation makes you happy and increases the feelings of compassion – this helps people with depression
• Improves sleep 
• Enhances empathy and helps in strengthening relationships.
• Physical health benefits – lower blood pressure, improve heart health, strengthen immune system, reduce inflammation and chronic pain

Mediation increases your self-satisfaction and will bring you positive vibes. If you try meditation even for a few minutes a day, you will be able to achieve these benefits. Trust me – it works.

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