Meditation is commonly misunderstood by those who do not practice it. Very often, it is described as a person being in “altered states of consciousness.” That makes it appear even more like a drug, as opposed to bringing clarity to a busy mind. Without going too deep right into what meditation is, or is not, let’s concentrate on among the many things an everyday reflection method can do for you.
Meditation is frequently used in Yoga exercise, however, it has been practiced by a range of cultures, including Roman Catholic priests, as well as Japanese Samurai, who practiced a form of Zen meditation. It is practiced in cultures all around the world to create a sense of calm and inner harmony.
Although the practice has ties to many different religious teachings, mediation is less about faith and more about altering consciousness, finding awareness and achieving a sense of inner peace. These days, with the greater need to reduce stress in the midst of our busy schedules and demanding lives, meditation is increasing in popularity.
Although there is no right or wrong way to meditate, it’s important to find a practice that meets your needs and complements your personality. The most popular types of meditation are:
- mindfulness
- spiritual
- focused
- movement
- mantra
- loving-kindness
- visualization
Not all meditation styles are right for everyone. Each practice requires different skills and mindsets. Choose which practice feels most comfortable and what you feel is right for you. Try stepping out of your comfort zone and try a few different types.
The easiest way to begin is to sit quietly and focus on your breath. As the saying goes “you should sit in meditation for 20 minutes every day – unless you’re too busy, then you should sit for an hour as needing it more”. 😀
Benefits of meditation:
- lowers blood pressure
- reduces anxiety
- decreases pain
- eases symptoms of anxiety and depression
- improves sleep
Whether you are seeking stress reduction, spiritual enlightenment or more balanced flow and movement, meditation can be a tremendous addition to your life. Open yourself up to the its many benefits and possibilities and keep seeking new paths and modalities to empower your health and wellness.
